Fuel

Claydon requested the call but did not deliver a substantive speech on the topic, instead focusing on procedural matters regarding interjections.

Chesters attributed fuel shortages to a spike in demand rather than supply failures, noting that regional stations often run low due to increased customer numbers. Chesters warned against stockpiling fuel, citing safety risks associated with storing petrol in jerry cans. Chesters also defended the fuel excise tax, arguing it funds road infrastructure and that previous cuts had not always been passed on to consumers.

Aldred described the severe impact on farmers, who faced difficult choices between buying fuel and fertiliser at a critical planting time. Aldred highlighted cases of fuel theft and the mental stress on rural communities, arguing that the government lacked urgency and empathy. Aldred warned that failure to plant crops would lead to reduced production and higher food prices for all Australians.

France detailed government actions, including releasing a fifth of fuel reserves, allowing lower-quality fuel for domestic use, and supporting local refineries. France contrasted this with the previous government's record of closing refineries and holding reserves overseas. France listed various cost-of-living measures, such as tax cuts, wage increases, and investments in healthcare and housing, arguing the opposition opposed these initiatives.

Birrell shared concerns from farmers about diesel availability for sowing crops, noting that while fertiliser supplies were adequate, fuel distribution remained a problem. Birrell argued that the minister's assurances were insufficient without tangible results in getting fuel to regional service stations and farms. Birrell warned that disruptions to the agricultural supply chain could affect food availability and exports.

Gregg highlighted recent changes to diesel standards to allow imports from the United States, Canada, and Europe, aiming to boost supply. Gregg appointed Anthea Harris as Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator to improve coordination across governments. Gregg argued that panic and misinformation were exacerbating the crisis, urging for mature leadership and fact-based information rather than political opportunism.

Wilson reported that inflation in Western Australia was already high before the conflict, and rising fuel costs were increasing freight charges and grocery prices. Wilson claimed that independent fuel distributors were receiving only 25 per cent of their normal allocations, effectively creating rationing. Wilson argued that the government's figures on out-of-fuel stations were outdated and that the situation was worsening rapidly in his electorate.

Berry outlined government measures including the release of 700 million litres of fuel, temporary amendments to fuel quality standards, and increased ACCC penalties for price gouging. Berry emphasised the government's focus on fairness, citing investments in public services, tax cuts, and wage protections. Berry argued that the government was actively managing the crisis through nation-building and economic reforms.