Investigation: EY produced deeply flawed modelling for the gas lobby, influencing government policy

EY’s 2023 report for Australian Energy Producers (AEP) misrepresented Australia’s gas future as “Paris” and “net zero” aligned, using selective data, non-existent scenarios, and assumptions that defy climate science. AEP then used this “independent” analysis to lobby for new gas fields, pipelines, and export contracts – arguments that helped shape the government’s Future Gas Strategy and lock in gas expansion through 2050 and beyond.

A review by the UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures found the submission’s Paris-alignment claims were inaccurate, reinforcing how unchecked industry narratives can mislead policy.

The case reveals how major consultancies like EY can lend credibility to fossil fuel advocacy – quietly influencing national policy while undermining both Australia’s climate commitments and their own stated net-zero goals.