Since the ruling Labor Party came to power in May 2022, Australia has approved 11 renewable energy projects, more than double the five approved by the previous government. Environment and Water Resources Minister Tanya Plibersek said the increase was due to Labor creating an environment of certainty for the private sector through its climate policy. Labor has pledged to cut Australia's carbon emissions by at least 43 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. More than 90 renewable energy projects are awaiting approval from PLibersek. The government has come under criticism for its decision to approve Santos to drill 116 new coal seam gas wells in central Queensland despite environmental concerns.