Fuel

Opened the debate

Cash argued that the government had failed to acknowledge a self-inflicted fuel crisis, with prices exceeding $3 a litre and shortages affecting motorists and businesses. Cash highlighted the impact on small businesses, the restaurant industry, and essential services like waste management and NDIS providers, warning of health risks if rubbish collection ceased. Cash urged the government to axe the fuel tax immediately to provide relief and ensure fuel distribution, stating that the crisis threatened national fuel security.

Government response

Ayres argued that the debate demonstrated the hyperpartisanship of the opposition and crossbench, rather than constructive policy solutions. Ayres stated that the government was managing the impacts of the Middle East conflict on fuel, fertiliser, and intermediate goods in an orderly and systematic way. Ayres emphasised that the government would continue to provide practical assistance to households, farmers, and industry, contrasting this with what he described as the opposition's disconnect from the national interest.

Opposition response

McKenzie supported the motion, arguing that the government could immediately cut the fuel excise and adjust road user charges to help the trucking industry. McKenzie criticised the government for delaying action for five weeks and failing to use existing powers to direct fuel supplies. McKenzie highlighted the cash flow crisis facing transport operators and agricultural sectors, calling for disaster-relief packages and GST relief similar to those provided during the pandemic.