Albanese Warns of Tough Months Ahead as Fuel Crisis Hits Australia

Albanese said that on Monday, National Cabinet adopted the National Fuel Security Plan, which would help Australians in case supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term.

"The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it. These are uncertain times, but I'm absolutely certain of this. We will deal with these global challenges the Australian way, working together and looking after each other, as we always have," he said.

"On Monday, National Cabinet adopted the National Fuel Security Plan. Leaders from both sides of politics, from right around the country, working together to keep Australia moving, making sure that we are prepared so that if the global situation gets worse and our fuel supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term, we can coordinate the next steps together," he added.

Albanese said his administration cut the fuel excise in half, and it will be effective for the next three months.

"Today, we cut the fuel excise in half. Cutting the tax on every litre of petrol by 26 cents. Those savings have started showing up at your petrol station. For our truckies, we have cut the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero. Both these measures will be in place for the next three months. We are working to bring the price of fuel down, to make more fuel here and to keep it on shore and get more fuel here," he said.

Albanese in his address noted that although Australia has nothing to do with the war in the Middle East, Australians are suffering because of it.

"My fellow Australians, by nature we're an optimistic country. But I understand that right now it's hard to be positive. The war in the Middle East has caused the biggest spike in petrol and diesel prices in history. Australia is not an active participant in this war, but all Australians are paying higher prices because of it. I know that you're seeing this at the servo and at the supermarket," he said.

Albanese noted that the economic ripples the war has sent will affect Australia for months.

"And I understand farmers and truckies, small businesses and families are doing it tough. And the reality is, the economic shocks caused by this war will be with us for months. Tonight I want to speak directly with you about what the Government is doing to shield Australia in these uncertain times. And also what all of us can do to help our country and help each other in the period ahead," he said.

Albanese said further that urged common citizens against hoarding fuel, and asked them to use only the bit they need.

"Using our strong trading relationships with our region to bring more petrol, diesel and fertiliser to Australia. Now it's the Australian way that people want to do their bit. And there are simple ways that you can. You should go about your business and your life as normal. Enjoy your Easter. And if you're hitting the road, don't take more fuel than you need. Just fill up like you normally would. Think of others in your community," he said.

Albanese also urged citizens to be empathetic to those who need to use trucks- and hence more fuel, and use public transport if they can.

"In the bush and in critical industries. And overcoming weeks if you can switch to catching the train or bus or tram to work, do so. That builds our reserves and it saves fuel for people who have no choice but to drive. Farmers and miners and tradies who need diesel every single day. And all those shift workers and nurses who do so much for our country," he said.

As per the statement by Australian Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, through the National Fuel Security Plan the National Cabinet has agreed to the National Fuel Security Plan (the Plan) to coordinate a consistent response across the Commonwealth, States and Territories. It monitors and reports fuel station supply, including the availability of diesel, among other outlined duties.

- ANI