Answers to Questions

Opened the debate

Antic argued that the government had shifted from dismissing concerns to acknowledging a severe crisis, citing that 166 petrol stations were out of fuel as of 22 March 2026. Antic linked the shortages to global geopolitical shocks and pre-existing vulnerabilities in Australia's self-sufficiency, warning of potential rationing and increased government intervention. Antic suggested that the timing of these issues aligned with broader global coordination efforts, raising questions about sovereignty and future mandates.

Government response

Darmanin attributed the shortages to international events outside Australia's control, specifically conflicts in the Middle East. Darmanin highlighted the government's introduction of the minimum stockholding obligation in 2023, which ensures domestic fuel reserves are held in Brisbane and Geelong rather than overseas. Darmanin stated that the government had released 20 per cent of the baseline reserves and was working with states to distribute fuel, while also promoting long-term clean energy investments to reduce reliance on global supply chains.

Opposition response

Sharma criticised the government for providing contradictory information, noting that the energy minister had claimed sufficient diesel supplies just 12 days prior to widespread shortages. Sharma detailed specific figures of unavailable fuel grades across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, arguing that the government's denialism had exacerbated the crisis. Sharma also raised concerns about urea imports for fertiliser, linking the supply shock to high inflation and interest rate hikes driven by poor economic management.