Appropriation (Fuel Security Response) Bill (No. 1) 2025-2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Monday 30 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The Treasurer introduced legislation to establish a financial safety net for addressing fuel security challenges arising from global supply disruptions. The bill sought an appropriation authority of $800 million, part of a broader $2 billion advance to the finance minister provision. This funding was designed to cover urgent and unforeseen costs that could not be met through existing budgets. The measure aimed to provide flexibility for government departments over the final three months of the financial year. No other members spoke during the debate.

   Outcome: The bill was commended to the House by the Treasurer.

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2. Monday 30 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on the government's response to a national fuel crisis triggered by conflict in the Middle East. The government defended the legislation as a necessary tool to secure fuel imports and establish a strategic reserve for critical minerals, while opposition members criticised the administration for delayed action and economic mismanagement. Opposition speakers supported the bill in principle but moved amendments to expand Export Finance Australia's powers to include commercial accounts and remove environmental barriers for emergency infrastructure. The government announced a temporary halving of the fuel excise and reduction of heavy vehicle charges to provide immediate relief.

   Outcome: The debate was interrupted in accordance with standing order 43, with leave granted for the member to continue speaking when resumed.

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3. Wednesday 1 April 2026 · Senate

   Limitation of Debate

   The Senate considered the first reading of two appropriation bills related to fuel security response. Senator Gallagher moved the motion for the bills to be read a first time, which was agreed to. Senator Thorpe subsequently moved an amendment calling for a 90-day in-country fuel reserve and directing Defence spending on domestic storage infrastructure. The amendment was negatived, and the bills proceeded to the next stage.

   Outcome: The motion for first reading was agreed to, and the amendment moved by Senator Thorpe was negatived.

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