Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Darmanin for the question and the opportunity to update the Senate, in addition to Senator Wong's contributions during question time today, about the important meeting that was held this morning—the second meeting of National Cabinet since this conflict began—and the decisions and actions that have been taken as a result of it.

There are a number of things that have happened since the conflict began. Obviously, we've passed new laws to double penalties for petrol companies that engage in price gouging, misleading conduct or cartel behaviour. We've released 20 per cent of Australia's fuel reserves, targeted to ease pressure—particularly in regional markets—and to protect supply for critical users. We've temporarily adjusted petrol and diesel standards to increase available supply and to keep fuel moving through the system. Importantly, we've engaged with international partners and suppliers to support continued shipments and strengthen supply-chain resilience. That's an important part of our response, and, of course, it has been supported by the work that we've done in strengthening relationships with international partners since coming to government, led by Senator Wong and Senator Farrell, in addition to other ministers.

We've appointed Anthea Harris as the national Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator to drive whole-of-government coordination with states and territories, industries and key stakeholders. We've provided some additional support in financial counselling support for impacted farmers because we know that there are certainly pressures that land very hard in the regions.

Today, the Albanese government has taken further action by cutting the fuel excise by half and reducing the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero for three months. We've also introduced bills to ensure the government can respond quickly to urgent and unforeseen fuel security challenges that may arise between now and when the parliament resumes.