Federal Labor has backed gas as a key part of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 in a new policy platform set for debate later this month.
The ALP's draft platform notes gas has an important role to play in achieving the long-term climate target.
It says the party's policies will support gas extraction workers and build on supporting sufficient and affordable supply of the energy source.
"This includes support for new gas projects and associated infrastructure, subject to independent approval processes to ensure legitimate community concerns are heard and addressed," the platform says.
The draft also expresses support for carbon capture and storage, describing it as having a crucial role in abating pollution and ensuring heavy industry can reduce emissions.
The Morrison government has not yet committed to net zero emissions by 2050 despite growing international pressure to back the target.
There remains a rump of Nationals and Liberal MPs opposed to the goal, rekindling tensions that have dogged energy and climate policy for more than a decade.
Labor will hold a special platform conference to debate the document with 400 delegates set to meet online at the end of March.
The embrace of gas shifts the party's position closer to the coalition, which has championed the energy source.
Changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax have been dumped from the platform as Labor tries to distance itself from proposals it took to the last federal election.
Australian Associated Press
