Canberra, April 1 (ANI) — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned Australians on Wednesday that the months ahead “may not be easy” as the ongoing crisis in West Asia disrupts global fuel supplies and pushes up prices at the pump and on supermarket shelves.
Albanese said National Cabinet on Monday adopted a National Fuel Security Plan aimed at preparing the country for prolonged supply interruptions. He stressed no government can completely shield Australia from the economic pressures caused by the war, but pledged that authorities will “do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it.” He called for unity, saying Australians will respond “the Australian way, working together and looking after each other.”
The prime minister said the plan received cross‑party support so the Commonwealth, states and territories can coordinate steps if global conditions worsen and long‑term fuel shortages occur. The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet says the plan will establish a consistent national response, monitor and report fuel station supplies — including diesel availability — and support coordinated actions across jurisdictions.
To provide immediate relief, the government has halved the fuel excise for three months, reducing the tax on every litre of petrol by 26 cents. The heavy vehicle road user charge has been suspended to zero for the same period. Albanese said savings from those measures are already appearing at petrol stations and that the government is working to lower prices further, increase domestic supply and keep more fuel onshore.
Although Australia is not a direct participant in the Middle East conflict, Albanese noted the country is feeling its effects: “The war in the Middle East has caused the biggest spike in petrol and diesel prices in history. Australia is not an active participant in this war, but all Australians are paying higher prices because of it.”
He warned the economic fallout could persist for months and urged practical community measures to conserve fuel: avoid hoarding, fill tanks only as needed and use public transport where feasible to preserve fuel for those who must drive — including farmers, miners, tradespeople, shift workers and health care staff.
(ANI)
