Albanese says policies "sometimes bring pain to affected communities"

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the Australian Workers' Union, defending a proposed national gas reserve policy aimed at ensuring domestic supply for industry. He acknowledged that the transition to a modern energy grid and industrial changes can negatively impact communities, referencing recent job losses at smelters and steelworks. The government has provided financial support to some heavy industries, such as aluminium smelters in Tomago and Tasmania. Albanese emphasized the importance of the Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme for Australia's future and urged parliamentary passage, though its Senate approval is uncertain.