The Bottom Line

Gas reservation bill nears law as unemployment edges higher

Updated Sunday 1 November 2026

MacroBusiness reports that Labor's domestic gas reservation scheme, which would require LNG producers to set aside a share of annual exports for Australian consumers, is likely to become law, with the stated aim of easing power bills through a modest oversupply.

The RBA cash rate stands at 4.60 per cent after four rises this year, from 3.60 per cent at the start of 2026, a full percentage point in the current tightening run. ABS figures show the unemployment rate has risen in each of the past four months, reaching 4.72 per cent in September 2026, the highest reading in the series since the tightening cycle began.

The Albanese government has since banned agencies from purchasing promotional merchandise without prior approval, with rules taking effect from July 2026.

ABC reports that one agency said its monthly sales volumes have risen well beyond any previous monthly record.

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