On the 28th of November 2024, the Federal Government has enacted the Future Made in Australia (Guarantee of Origin) Bill 2024 (GO Bill) along with two supporting bills,1 in predominantly the same form as originally introduced into Parliament. The passing of the GO Bill marks a pivotal step in Australia’s journey toward a clean energy future. The legislation establishes the voluntary Guarantee of Origin (GO) Scheme, which will play a critical role in certifying low-emission products and renewable electricity.2 The scheme aims to enhance transparency, consumer confidence, and Australia’s competitiveness in global markets, as the world transitions to net-zero emissions.
Administered by the Clean Energy Regulator, the GO Scheme involves two main components:
- The certification of products through Product Guarantee of Origin (PGO) Certificates.
- The certification of renewable electricity through Renewable Electricity Guarantee of Origin (REGO) Certificates.
The GO Scheme will support existing government initiatives, such as the Capacity Investment Scheme, and will be key to determining eligibility under the Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive.3
The Government is yet to announce the commencement date of the GO Scheme, however, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, has indicated that it will launch in 2025.4
Keep an eye out for further updates and announcements on the GO Scheme, or read more about the GO Bill here.
The Hamilton Locke team advises across the energy project life cycle – from project development, grid connection, financing, and construction, including the buying and selling of development and operating projects. For more information, please contact Matt Baumgurtel.
1Future Made in Australia (Guarantee of Origin) Bill 2024 (Cth); Future Made in Australia (Guarantee of Origin Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2024 (Cth); Future Made in Australia (Guarantee of Origin Charges) Bill 2024 (Cth).
2The Hon Chris Bowen MP and the Hon Josh Wilson MP, ‘Pressing GO on a future made in Australia’ (Media Release, 28 November 2024) (‘Chris Bowen Media Release’).
3Chris Bowen Media Release (n 2).
4Ibid.
