Colin Boyce (Flynn, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Fuel prices, fuel distribution and now fuel shortages are front of mind for families, farmers and small businesses right across the electorate of Flynn. This is no longer just a cost-of-living issue; it is becoming a supply crisis. Right now, fuel excise must be cut to provide immediate relief while prices remain volatile and unpredictable. Beyond price, we are facing a deeper problem. Large fuel suppliers are failing to provide adequate quotas to independent distributors and the very businesses that keep our agricultural sector moving, our transport industry running and our regional communities connected. Farmers are being left without diesel to operate machinery during critical periods. Transport operators are struggling to keep goods moving, and, in some communities across the Flynn electorate, families are arriving at the bowser only to find there is simply no fuel available. Minister Chris Bowen must step in and ensure that fair fuel allocations are mandated so that independent distributors can continue to supply regional and rural Australia.

At the same time, we must address this long-term challenge. Australia needs to prioritise increasing domestic fuel production, strengthen our fuel supply chains and invest in refining capability to ensure we are never left in this vulnerable position again. Fuel security is national security, and regional Australia is being left behind.

See this speech in context