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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday addressed the nation on what's been a period of economic strain, acknowledging the growing pressure as fuel prices surge due to America and Israel's war on Iran.
Stressing that Australia was not directly involved inthe war, he noted that global disruptions have led to a sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices, impacting everyday life across the country.
In his address on April 1, the Prime Minister stated that the months ahead might not be easy. He added that Australians are already feeling the effects through increased costs at fuel stations and supermarkets, with farmers, transport operators, small businesses, and families among the hardest hit. He warned that the economic impact of the conflict is likely to persist for several months.
To mitigate the crisis, the government has rolled out a series of measures under a newly adopted national fuel security plan.
“Tonight, I want to speak directly with you about what the government is doing to shield Australia in these uncertain times. And also, what all of us can do to help our country and help each other in the period ahead,” he said.
“On Monday, national cabinet adopted the national fuel security plan. Leaders from both sides of politics, from right around the country, working together to keep Australia moving. Making sure that we are prepared. So that if the global situation gets worse and ourfuel supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term, we can coordinate the next steps together.”
As part of immediate relief, the government has halved the fuel excise, reducing taxes by 26 cents per litre of petrol. Additionally, the heavy vehicle road user charge has been temporarily reduced to zero to support trucks. These measures will remain in place for the next three months.
The government is also working to stabilise fuel supply. “To make more fuel here and to keep it onshore. And get more fuel here – using our strong trading relationships with our region to bring more petrol, diesel and fertiliser to Australia. Now, it’s the Australian way that people want to do their bit – and there are simple ways that you can,” he added.
Appealing for public cooperation, the Prime Minister urged citizens to use fuel responsibly and avoid unnecessary stockpiling.
He encouraged people to continue their daily routines but consider alternatives such as public transport where possible, to conserve fuel for essential sectors including agriculture, mining, and healthcare.
Acknowledging that the coming months may be challenging, Albanese said the government remains committed to shielding the country from the worst impacts of the crisis.
The Prime Minister said, “The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it.”
He concluded by emphasising unity and collective responsibility, adding, "We will deal with these global challenges, the Australian way. Working together – and looking after each other."
Stressing that Australia was not directly involved inthe war, he noted that global disruptions have led to a sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices, impacting everyday life across the country.
In his address on April 1, the Prime Minister stated that the months ahead might not be easy. He added that Australians are already feeling the effects through increased costs at fuel stations and supermarkets, with farmers, transport operators, small businesses, and families among the hardest hit. He warned that the economic impact of the conflict is likely to persist for several months.
My
Address to the Nation. pic.twitter.com/Iaqts9Rd4X
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 1, 2026
To mitigate the crisis, the government has rolled out a series of measures under a newly adopted national fuel security plan.
“Tonight, I want to speak directly with you about what the government is doing to shield Australia in these uncertain times. And also, what all of us can do to help our country and help each other in the period ahead,” he said.
“On Monday, national cabinet adopted the national fuel security plan. Leaders from both sides of politics, from right around the country, working together to keep Australia moving. Making sure that we are prepared. So that if the global situation gets worse and ourfuel supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term, we can coordinate the next steps together.”
As part of immediate relief, the government has halved the fuel excise, reducing taxes by 26 cents per litre of petrol. Additionally, the heavy vehicle road user charge has been temporarily reduced to zero to support trucks. These measures will remain in place for the next three months.
The government is also working to stabilise fuel supply. “To make more fuel here and to keep it onshore. And get more fuel here – using our strong trading relationships with our region to bring more petrol, diesel and fertiliser to Australia. Now, it’s the Australian way that people want to do their bit – and there are simple ways that you can,” he added.
Appealing for public cooperation, the Prime Minister urged citizens to use fuel responsibly and avoid unnecessary stockpiling.
He encouraged people to continue their daily routines but consider alternatives such as public transport where possible, to conserve fuel for essential sectors including agriculture, mining, and healthcare.
Acknowledging that the coming months may be challenging, Albanese said the government remains committed to shielding the country from the worst impacts of the crisis.
The Prime Minister said, “The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it.”
He concluded by emphasising unity and collective responsibility, adding, "We will deal with these global challenges, the Australian way. Working together – and looking after each other."
