Australia's Gas Reserves

Mr Fletcher asked the Minister for Resources and Energy, in writing, on 21 August 2012:

Has the Government undertaken any research or does it hold any data that indicates the amount of natural gas needed if it were to be used as a substitute energy source for all products and vehicles currently powered by petrol or diesel; if so, what does the research or data reveal, including the proportion of Australia's gas reserves required per annum.

Mr Martin Ferguson: The answer to the honourable Member's question is as follows:

The Australian Government considers that an efficient and competitive global transport fuel market is the most effective means to deliver transport fuel outcomes for consumers. As such, the Australian Government has not undertaken any research and does not hold any data that indicates the amount of natural gas needed if it were to be used as a substitute energy source for all products and vehicles currently powered by petrol or diesel.