Kara Cook (Bonner, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

This government has taken decisive action to safeguard Australia's security and protect Australian households during a time of global uncertainty. In response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its impact on global fuel supply, we now have a comprehensive national fuel security plan. Labor has acted to ease cost-of-living pressures by halving the fuel excise for three months, which directly reduces prices at the bowser. We have also reduced the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero and deferred its next increase, which supports our freight sector and keeps goods moving right across our country.

We have taken unprecedented steps to secure essential supplies. Legislation introduced this week allows the Commonwealth to underwrite shipments of fuel, fertiliser and other critical goods. We have begun to release 20 per cent of Australia's fuel reserves and updated fuel standards to increase supply into our market. We are also cracking down on misconduct, with new laws that double the penalties for petrol price gouging. We have also acted to ensure fair pay for truck drivers when fuel prices spike. Australians expect their government to step up in moments like this, and that is exactly what it is doing. We are acting with urgency, with coordination and with purpose to protect households, support industry and secure our nation's supply. Because, when global shocks hit, Australians should not be left to face them alone. The Albanese Labor government is delivering for all Australians. (Time expired)

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