Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged Australians to stop hoarding petrol, emphasizing that the country’s fuel supply is currently in a stable condition. This statement came during a meeting of the National Cabinet, which was convened to address the rising cost of oil and petrol due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Albanese was firm in his assertion that there is no shortage of fuel in Australia, and he criticized those who were panic-buying petrol, stating that such actions were exacerbating the situation rather than helping it. He encouraged Australians to take only what they need, highlighting the importance of considering the community and national interest.
Despite some regional communities experiencing fuel shortages, the government has hinted that fuel rationing may be necessary if the global oil crisis persists. However, Albanese dismissed these concerns, stating that while distribution could be a temporary issue, the overall supply of fuel remains adequate.
“There is no less fuel in Australia today than there was three weeks ago,” he said. “Every single ship that was due to land here has landed here.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) would have full government support in addressing any instances of price gouging by petrol suppliers. He emphasized that the government is committed to cracking down on companies that attempt to exploit customers at the pump.
To ensure that fuel reaches all communities across Australia, Albanese announced the formation of a fuel supplier task force. This group will collaborate closely with the federal government as well as all states and territories. The inaugural coordinator of the task force will be Anthea Harris, who previously served as the CEO of the Australian Energy Regulator.
Albanese stated that the task force would focus on supporting coordination between governments and sectors. He added that an agreement would be reached between every state and territory to appoint someone to work with Harris, ensuring a coordinated effort during this time.
He called on the states and territories to fulfill their responsibilities in ensuring that fuel distribution meets the needs of all parts of Australia, particularly in rural areas that are struggling. Albanese noted that the responsibility for distribution within each jurisdiction lies with the states and territories.
Albanese confirmed that the task force had already begun its work, with the decision to establish it made just two days prior. This initiative aims to provide a structured approach to managing the challenges posed by the current global oil situation.
