Question Time AU

Matter of Public Importance

Albanese Government

House of Representatives · Wednesday 25 March 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate centred on the government's handling of fuel shortages driven by Middle East conflicts and panic buying, with opposition members arguing that regional communities and farmers were being neglected. Government ministers defended their response, citing increased fuel reserves, ACCC investigations into price gouging, and cost-of-living relief measures. Opposition speakers highlighted concerns over the EU free trade agreement's impact on agriculture and the lack of domestic urea production. The discussion concluded with government members reiterating their commitment to shielding Australians from global economic shocks.

Outcome

The matter of public importance was debated without a vote being taken.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Chester argued that the government had broken its promise to govern for all Australians, citing incompetence in managing the fuel crisis and the EU free trade agreement. Chester claimed that peak agricultural bodies viewed the EU deal as detrimental to farmers, who faced rising costs and unfair market access. Chester asserted that the Prime Minister divided Australians through policies like the Voice referendum and renewable energy targets, while cutting regional grant programs such as the Building Better Regions Fund. Chester contended that the government prioritised photo opportunities over the interests of regional communities and agricultural producers.

Government response

Khalil stated that fuel supply issues stemmed from increased demand and panic buying rather than a lack of supply, noting that cancelled shipments had been replaced. Khalil outlined government actions, including releasing 20 per cent of baseline fuel stockholding obligations, appointing a Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator, and empowering the ACCC to monitor prices. Khalil emphasised that Defence fuel reserves were secure, having doubled since 2022 with a $3 billion investment. Khalil listed various cost-of-living relief measures, such as tax cuts and Medicare boosts, as evidence of the government's commitment to supporting Australians.

Opposition response

Webster rejected the claim that the opposition was encouraging panic buying, arguing that farmers required substantial fuel for agricultural operations. Webster criticised the government for failing to address workforce shortages in regional health and aged care, as well as infrastructure deficits. Webster highlighted concerns from primary producers regarding the EU trade deal, which she argued was linked to the Paris Agreement and harmed Australian farmers through green economy taxes. Webster cited quotes from agricultural leaders describing the deal as appalling and unfair to regional industries.