Australians are being urged to prepare for months of economic pressure as the Federal Government moves to soften the blow of soaring fuel prices, with the Prime Minister delivering a rare national address outlining a sweeping response to the global fuel crisis.
In a televised speech — the first of its kind in six years — the Prime Minister acknowledged the growing strain on households and businesses, saying, “By nature, we’re an optimistic country, but I understand that right now it’s hard to be positive.”
The address comes as the government officially halves the fuel excise, cutting 26 cents per litre from petrol prices, with the change already beginning to show at service stations across the country. The measure, alongside a reduction of the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero, will remain in place for the next three months.
“The war in the Middle East has caused the biggest spike in petrol and diesel prices in history,” the Prime Minister said. “Australia is not an active participant in this war, but all Australians are paying higher prices because of it.”
The government has also confirmed a coordinated National Fuel Security Plan, agreed upon by National Cabinet earlier this week, designed to safeguard supply if global conditions worsen. The plan includes boosting domestic fuel production, securing imports through international partnerships, and prioritising essential industries.
“I know that you’re seeing this at the servo and at the supermarket,” the Prime Minister said. “Farmers and truckies, small businesses and families are doing it tough.”
While the government moves to stabilise supply chains and reduce costs, Australians are also being asked to play their part in easing demand.
“You should go about your business and your life as normal… but don’t take more fuel than you need. Just fill up like you normally would,” the Prime Minister said.
Public transport has been flagged as a key way to reduce pressure on fuel supplies, with commuters encouraged to leave the car at home where possible.
“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.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the critical need to support workers and industries that rely on fuel daily, including agriculture, mining, freight and healthcare.
“The months ahead may not be easy… No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing,” he said.
But the message ended on a note of unity, calling on Australians to work together through the uncertainty.
“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.”
The fuel excise cut takes effect immediately, with cost-of-living relief expected to flow through over the coming weeks as global conditions continue to evolve.
