Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has addressed the current fuel crisis in a rare public address.
On Wednesday evening, Albanese delivered a pre-recorded statement in what is the sixth time a national address has been given in Australian history.
Per ABC, the Prime Minister said Australia is paying higher fuel prices due to the Iran war, despite not being an “active participant” in it.
“I know that you’re seeing this at the servo and at the supermarket,” he said. “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.”
He continued: “We are working to bring the price of fuel down, to make more fuel here, and to keep it onshore.”
Australia reportedly has about 30 days worth of diesel, 39 of petrol and 30 of jet fuel held in reserve. Though all shipments through to May are secure, Albanese urged Australians to consider taking public transport if appropriate.
“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, in the bush and in critical industries,” he said.
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“And over coming weeks, if you can switch to catching the train or bus or tram to work, do so.”
The PM conceded the next few months will be tough, but said that the country is in stage two of the government’s four-step fuel action plan and is a “substantial” way away from the third and fourth levels which involve more target actions to preserve fuel stocks.
“The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that,” he said.
“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.”
