Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Canberra for her question, ably assisted by young Joseph. I congratulate her on expanding her family. Now, we understand indeed that all Australian families at the moment, businesses and farmers, are feeling the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The government is working with partners across the board, taking action on Australia's fuel security and supply. Whether it's with state and territory governments, whether it be with international partners or with industry, a calm, steady, fact based approach is what we are focused on, because we want Australia to be overprepared. I want us to have the strongest possible plan so we're ready for what may come. Indeed, it's been supported by industry.

The BCA CEO Bran Black said, 'Australia's companies are working collaboratively with government,' and that's the point that I want to stress. This is a time where we really do need to adopt a 'team Australia' moment. It's only by working together that we'll get through it. Andrew McKellar from ACCI said, 'We've seen a number of steps that the government are taking in terms of getting consultation with industry.' He went on to say, '… national cabinet, the appointment of Anthea Harris as the national Fuel Supply Task Force Coordinator, the things that they've done in terms of fuel standards and releasing some of those reserves.' The National Farmers' Federation said, 'We acknowledge the global factors at the core of these issues, and that the need for a calm and considered approach to supply chain issues is imperative …' That's what the actual farmers have said through the NFF.

See this speech in context