Michael McLaren says a sceptic could look at the federal energy guarantee granted to Tomago Aluminium and say the timely decision to conclude the quarterly $75 energy rebate was a “convenient decision”.

The 2GB Afternoons host notes as it stands, energy intensive manufracturing only has a future in Australia if taxpayers play the role of “underwriter and guarantor”.

“Given that the Albanese government will now need to find billions to underwrite tomorrow’s power bill beyond 2028,” he said.

He also notes that both Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen will need to confront the fact that their energy policy will not lead to cheaper energy prices.

“Mind you, if the opposition remains a dog’s breakfast, a largely uncritical media and sympathetic crossbench in play, well, the government might just get away with it,” he added.

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