Pat Conaghan (Cowper, National Party, Shadow Assistant Treasurer) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yesterday we saw this government finally forced into using a bit of common sense by slashing the fuel excise, saving all Australians 26c per litre at the bowser. It's great that they listened to us, but there's much more that needs to be done to protect everyday Australians and our national interest. Gary Eichmann, a generational dairy farmer in my electorate, is unable to get the fuel he ordered three weeks ago. Now he's been advised that, when the fuel is eventually available, the cost will be 30c per litre dearer than the service station costs due to inflated wholesale prices to independents. Gary's not the only one sounding the alarm on wholesaler supply. Every Nationals MP has received similar calls. Across the floor, the few of you that do actually have producers amongst your constituents must be hearing the same thing.

The government has to admit there is a distribution issue that is set to negatively impact on every Australian at the check-out in the very near future. Safeguards must be put in place for primary industries and distribution networks, and they needed to be put in place three weeks ago. No farmers means no food, no freight and no deliveries, and no supply of goods means skyrocketing prices on every product at the check-out. The tax cut was one small step for everyday Australians, but a giant leap is required by this government to keep our country running. (Time expired)

Kara Cook (Bonner, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to 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)