General News
12 March, 2026
MP calls for fuel assurance strategy
MEMBER for Wannon Dan Tehan has called on the Federal Government to act now to ensure Australian fuel supplies.
Prices at bowsers spiked over the weekend as mass purchases followed news the United States and Israel had launched military action against Iran.
Mr Tehan said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen needed to reassure Australians the government has a strategy in place to ensure there will be adequate fuel supplies for the nation.
“Reports that fuel wholesalers have commenced rationing petrol and diesel supplies across Australia are deeply concerning,” he said.
“Under Labor, Australia risks going back to 1940 when rationing was introduced to manage shortages caused by World War II.
“Australia is a diesel economy.
“Without fuel, trucks carrying our food, pharmaceuticals and supplies stop, making us vulnerable.”
Mr Tehan said any strategy must target gaps in supply to protect industries such as agriculture, manufacturing and transport.
“The former Coalition government introduced the Petroleum and Other Fuels Reporting Act – a mandatory reporting regime – to monitor Australia’s fuel security,” he said.
“Chris Bowen should be using his powers under the Act to identify customers at risk of fuel shortages – especially farmers, manufacturers and the transport industry – to ensure supply gaps are addressed as a priority.”