Long queues for petrol at a Sydney service station.
The prime minister will talk to state premiers and chief ministers today in a national cabinet meeting aimed at ensuring Australia has a united response to the global oil supply shock.
But while supply chains, fuel reserves, local refineries (or the lack thereof) and the uncertainty brought about by the war in Iran may be on the agenda, the nation’s more immediate concern appears to be ensuring businesses and everyday Aussies do their bit.

A sudden meeting has been convened to tackle the pressing issue of fuel shortages, with a particular focus on rural areas where certain petrol stations have had to shut down.

During a speech delivered to the Australian Automotive Dealer Association in Sydney, Anthony Albanese remarked, “The world has changed, and it’s essential for us to recognize this shift and adapt accordingly.”

Long queues for petrol at a Sydney service station.
The government insists increased demand, not lack of supply, has caused petrol shortages.(Hannah Murphy)

Although today’s meeting has been emphasized as an initiative aimed at fostering national cooperation, Albanese hinted at the possibility of the government stepping in to purchase fuel directly from the international market to secure supply.

While it has emergency powers in its arsenal if required, the government has reiterated fuel rationing isn’t on the agenda anytime soon, even if it can’t be completely ruled out.

“We are preparing for all possible situations and will continue to do so,” he affirmed.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Stay updated with breaking news and exclusive stories by following us on all platforms.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.

You May Also Like

Rescue Team Nears Group Trapped for Days in Laos Cave

in brief Seven people have been trapped in a cave in Laos’…
Gofal Baziad is accused of murdering Jason Palmer, so he could continue a relationship with his wife Renny.

Verdict Delivered in Two-Decade-Old Love Triangle Murder Case

A man has been convicted of murder after attacking a romantic rival…

Perth Invasion Day Rally Bombing Suspect Faces Court in First Appearance

The world of entertainment has been buzzing with excitement as a remarkable…

US-Iran Peace Talks at Risk: Key Issue Threatens Progress Through 2028

in brief Nuclear capabilities, sanctions, and the Strait of Hormuz remain sticking…
'I'm still shaking': Villagers found alive after week trapped in cave

Survivors Rescued After Week-Long Ordeal Trapped in Cave

Five villagers stuck in a flooded cave in central Laos for more…
Children killed as train crashes into school minibus

Tragic Collision: Train Strikes School Minibus, Resulting in Child Fatalities

A crash between a bus and a train travelling at high speed…
More than 17.2 million Aussies are enrolled to vote in the election on Saturday May 21, with thousands already having their say in pre-polling centres (pictured, voters in Sydney in 2019)

Australia Election 2022: The Financial Penalty for Non-Participation in Voting

Australians are navigating some of the most stringent compulsory voting regulations worldwide,…
White House transformed, but this isn't for the ballroom

White House Undergoes Exciting New Makeover—And It’s Not for Dancing

Images have emerged showing a UFC octagon taking shape on the lawn…
Vivid cancels shows after drones plummet due to 'technical difficulties'

Vivid Sydney Halts Shows as Drone Failures Cause Technical Turmoil

Vivid Sydney has been forced to cancel its centrepiece drone show for…
The husband, wife, and three children who were inside this Sapphire Place home at Eagle Vale have been left terrified.

Terrifying Case of Mistaken Identity Shakes Local Family

A family residing in Sydney’s south-west is reeling from shock after their…
David Jones' average overdue payments to suppliers were 16 days - more than double the industry average, according to a new report by a commercial credit agency

Iconic Australian Business Faces Uncertain Future Amid Alarming Repayment Delays

Concerns have been sparked about the longevity of one of Australia’s most…
Mr Morrison's most famous debacle was sneaking out of the country to holiday with his family in Hawaii in the midst of the 2019-20 bushfires crisis

Could Scott Morrison’s Missteps Impact His Re-election Bid?

As Scott Morrison faces the electorate, he is acutely aware that any…