Australia’s carbon tax is expected to be approved

Australia’s Prime Minister Julia Gillard is expected to get the controversial carbon tax through parliament. It is expected that petrol for cars and light commercial vehicles will be exempt from the carbon tax. Gillard has been able to secure the support of both the Australian Greens and independents. The government of Australia indicates it will spend A$3.2 billion (US$3.43 billion) on renewable energy projects and research. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) will consolidate existing programs ranging from solar energy and geothermal power and biofuels under one umbrella. Christine Milne, Greens deputy leader, indicates that “It has been obvious for years that renewable energy programs in Australia are a mess of badly designed schemes run as photo opportunities rather than helping build the industry. ARENA will change all that.” Fiona Nash, national senator, disagrees. “The prime minister will have the wrath of regional Australia on her doorstop if she moves to move one cent away from this diesel fuel rebate.” (July 8, 2011)