Tomago Deal Welcomed As A Clear Example Of Energy & Industrial Policy Working Together To Build National Resilience
Emily Wood | August 13, 2026
The Energy Users’ Association of Australia (EUAA) welcomes today’s announcement that the Federal and NSW Governments will work together to help secure the long-term future of the Tomago aluminium smelter.
“We welcome the announcement from the NSW and Federal Governments to ensure the future of the Tomago Aluminium Smelter, which will not only help secure jobs but also protect a critical part of Australia’s manufacturing base,” said EUAA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Andrew Richards.
But Tomago deal is about more than just an aluminium smelter. It is one example of why energy policy, industrial policy and national resilience are inseparable.
“Aluminium is one of the critical industries that has helped shape this country, its growth and prosperity. It is part of the engine room of the economy alongside industries such as steel, fertiliser, explosives, cement, chemicals, bricks, glass, paper, and food,” said Mr Richards.
“These industries provide much more than jobs. They provide skills, supply chain security, investment and the ongoing capability to make essential products here in Australia.”
“That capability matters. Australia cannot and should not make everything itself, but we should recognise the value of retaining industries that provide some protection from disruptions in international trade and global supply chains.”
“When global markets are disrupted, having the capability to make important materials and products here provides Australia with greater resilience and economic security.”
Large energy-intensive industries also play an important role in the electricity system.
“Large stable industrial loads play an important role in the way the electricity system operates and should not be seen simply as businesses that consume a lot of electricity. As we build the new electricity system with more renewable generation and storage, their role as cornerstone consumers will become increasingly important,” added Mr Richards.
Recognising the value that these businesses provide to the economy and to the energy system help inform how we design our future energy markets.
“The support for Tomago is an important step. The bigger opportunity is to use this experience to think more broadly about how Australia can build an energy system and industrial policy that allows our critical industries to invest, grow and prosper here.”
The EUAA is a leading advocate for large commercial and industrial energy users and promotes solutions-focused collaboration to ensure Australia has reliable, affordable and sustainable energy. These core issues are relevant to all Australian energy users, big and small.
The Energy Users’ Association of Australia (EUAA) is the peak body representing Australian commercial and industrial energy users. Our members are the engine room of the Australian economy, producing many of the products that households and business use every day including bricks, glass, steel, aluminium, paper, food and beverages. Combined our members employ over 1 million Australians, pay billions in energy bills every year and in many cases are exposed to the fluctuations and challenges of international trade.
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Media Contact: Emily Wood 0421 042 121
