Fuel security, or ‘Energy Security’ is a topic on it’s own.
In respect of Australian Manufacturing and Industry, it is often stated Australia supports free trade. There are always exceptions for any product considered strategic. Most nations defend higher local costs or protective legislation (EG import/export restrictions) on strategic need.
Is energy security is important strategically to Australia? Easily arguable given our relative isolation from key like minded democracies, and nearer neighbours who are working hard to succeed in their own space. Their ability to take sides is not assured, despite many common interests.
Agree the way forward is to leverage the resources we do have that will meet Australia’s future needs. It seems self evident self reliance in energy requires replacement of petroleum based products. The USA which is self sufficient in petroleum based products and an exporter market price dependent. The USA has chosen to continue to subsidise the sale and manufacture of plug in EVs. FOMO or a clear understanding that the industrial future and manufacturing of the USA cannot sidestep being part of the transition.
https://electrek.co/2021/02/11/tesla-7000-tax-credit-electric-cars-us-incentive-reform/
