The Australia Institute has launched a compelling campaign targeting the gas industry’s exploitation of Australia, showcasing the mantra that ‘Big Gas is taking the piss’. This initiative highlights alarming practices, including: exporting 80% of Australia’s gas while claiming a domestic shortage; paying no royalties on over half of exported gas; and inflating local gas and electricity prices to threefold since the onset of these exports. Moreover, it addresses how these fabricated shortages pressure governments into sanctioning major new export projects, exemplified by the North West Shelf project in Western Australia.
Collaborating with Australian artist and advocate John Butler, the campaign aims to expose the gas sector’s detrimental impact on the economy. Butler stresses the need to inform Australians of the deceitful tactics employed by Big Gas and reveals the troubling relationship between this industry and the government.
The campaign has gained significant traction, with its central film amassing over 500,000 views. Independent senator Jacquie Lambie added her voice to the discourse, standing in front of one of the campaign’s billboards at Parliament House.
Rich Berney, executive creative director at Berlin, highlights the paradox of the current gas scenario, noting the record volumes of exports coupled with skyrocketing local prices alongside the Australian Taxation Office’s designation of the gas industry as ‘systemic non-payers of tax’.
Mark Ogge, principal advisor at The Australia Institute, expressed satisfaction with the campaign’s effectiveness in amplifying the institute’s research findings. With the campaign reaching audiences via Broadcast TV, Online Video on Demand, Out Of Home advertising, and print media, it aims to educate the public as the May Federal Election approaches.
The Australia Institute has launched a campaign against the gas industry, stating they exploit Australians by exporting most gas while claiming shortages, paying little to no royalties, and drastically increasing domestic prices. The campaign, featuring John Butler and supported by senator Jacquie Lambie, has gained significant public attention and aims to educate citizens ahead of the Federal Election.
The Australia Institute’s new campaign effectively exposes the gas industry’s exploitation of Australia, spotlighting key injustices like inflated prices and lack of royalties. With engaging partnerships and widespread visibility, it stresses the need for transparency and accountability from influential corporations. As Australia prepares for the Federal Election, the campaign serves as a pivotal reminder for voters to critically assess the economic implications of energy policies.
Original Source: lbbonline.com
