Australia has substantial reserves of energy resources and energy-related minerals, and therefore has the potential for major increases in the production of such resources and the processing of minerals for export. Realization of this potential in the 80s will depend largely on the state of world markets.

Australia's resource base and its energy position have been described, and evaluated in the context of the development of Australia's energy resources as a contribution to the national and global transition away from oil. The economic growth that will flow from energy resources development and related activity is noted and possible constraints on development are considered.

The role of the Commonwealth government is addressed, proceeding from the key energy policy goal of ensuring adequate supplies of liquid fuels for Australian industry, especially the transport sector, and private consumers. Specific objectives and achievements in energy conservation, fuel substitution, oil exploration and production, and the development of synthetic fuels are discussed. The preparations made by the Commonwealth and State governments and the private sector to deal with severe disruptions to imported oil supplies are outlined. Energy research and development policies and programs are described briefly.

The Commonwealth government's policies are also examined in the context of setting the scene for resource development in the 80s. The importance of appropriate macro-economic and other supporting policies is emphasized.

Major individual resource projects are described, and Australia's potential contribution to the Pacific region, both in direct energy trade and in technological cooperation, is considered.

It is concluded that Australia has developed a flexible policy framework which will facilitate the development of its natural resources in the 80s.

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