Legislation
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) was established on 1 July 2012 by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency Act 2012 (ARENA Act). The ARENA is a corporate Commonwealth entity for the purpose of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013.
The ARENA Act sets out ARENA’s purpose and functions and establishes arrangements for the Board, Chief Executive Officer and staff.
Purpose and Functions
The ARENA was established to increase the supply of renewable energy in Australia. Additionally, the ARENA is helping to achieve the Australian Government’s climate change and energy objectives, anchored by emissions reduction goals of 43 per cent by 2030 and net zero by 2050.
Based on the functions set out in the ARENA Act and the priorities contained in ARENA’s General Funding Strategy, the ARENA provides financial assistance for:
- research into and development of early-stage technologies that are world-leading or address specific Australian requirements
- demonstration of the feasibility of new technologies or supporting business models that are novel in application
- pre-commercial deployment of technologies where this is expected to improve the competitiveness of future projects.
Responsible Ministers
The Minister for Climate Change and Energy is defined as the Responsible Minister under the ARENA Act. The Responsible Minister can approve funding and appoint members to the ARENA Board.
Statement of Expectations
The ARENA’s most recent Statement of Expectations came into effect in 2022. The Statement of Expectations include:
- delivering on the 2030 target and net zero by 2050
- collaborating with other government agencies on broader polies and priorities
- ensuring effective and inclusive engagement and governance
- communicating across the portfolio
- incineration of non-putrescible waste for energy.
Board appointment and membership
The ARENA Board consists of the Chair and up to 6 members appointed by the Responsible Minister. Members are appointed on a part-time basis for a maximum term of 2 years, with the possibility of reappointment. Section 30 of the ARENA Act specifies the appointment criteria for the Board.
Further information
For queries regarding the ARENA investments, or if you are seeking funding from the ARENA, please refer to the Australian Renewable Energy Agency website.
Queries on policy matters regarding the ARENA should be directed to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, which has the primary portfolio responsibility for the ARENA.
