The Australian Government has launched the $523.2 million Battery Breakthrough Initiative as part of its 2024-2025 Federal Budget, aimed at advancing battery manufacturing capabilities in the country.
As part of the broader Future Made in Australia (FMA) policy agenda, the initiative is now open for public consultation, inviting feedback from stakeholders to shape the program design.
The initiative is tied to the National Battery Strategy, released on 23 May 2024, which highlights Australia’s commitment to developing a competitive and diverse battery industry.
The program is being designed by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR), with ARENA taking the lead in program delivery.
A consultation paper has been published to provide an overview of the proposed design and to gather feedback on key elements, including:
- Program outcomes
- Focus areas
- Design features
- Market readiness and project appetite
Stakeholders are encouraged to submit information on potential projects that align with the program’s focus areas via Appendix D of the consultation paper.
Feedback from this process will help shape the final design of the initiative.
Key dates and events:
- Consultation Opens: 11 September 2024
- Webinar 1: Thursday, 19 September 2024, 10:00am AEST
- Webinar 2: Tuesday, 24 September 2024, 4:00pm AEST
- Written Submissions Close: 7 October 2024, 10:00am AEDT
The consultation process includes public webinars to discuss the program, where stakeholders can ask questions and learn more about the initiative.
Registration is open for the one-hour sessions, and recordings will be made available online.
Stakeholders can provide feedback by submitting written responses or completing Appendix D through the Consultation Paper Submission form.
ARENA may follow up with participants for further discussions based on their submissions.
For any additional queries or information not addressed in the consultation paper or webinars, stakeholders are encouraged to email batterybreakthrough@arena.gov.au.
