Energy Minister Chris Bowen has acknowledged that it might take a few days before consumers see reduced prices at the gas pump following the halving of the fuel excise.
On Monday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that his administration would reduce the fuel tax as part of a comprehensive National Security Fuel Plan. This four-step strategy aims to mitigate the effects of price surges caused by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Bowen appealed to drivers for patience, advising them not to vent frustration on petrol station employees if the excise reduction isn’t immediately reflected in pump prices, especially as the Easter holiday approaches.
Speaking to Nat Barr on the Sunrise show Tuesday, he explained, “Service stations may still have fuel in their tanks that was purchased days earlier.”
He added, “The tax has already been paid on that stock.”
Bowen clarified, “If you find the price unchanged tomorrow, it’s likely because they are using existing fuel supplies. The lower-taxed fuel has yet to arrive.”
