Victorian fuel reserves hit a concerning low and the Allan Labor Government goes into hiding.
Is anyone surprised?
We are again at a point where Victorians need their government to deliver leadership, immediate action, and strong solutions, and Premier Jacinta Allan and Agriculture Minister Ros Spence are nowhere to be seen.
The shortage in fuel supplies has left Victorians feeling it at the bowser, with petrol prices increasing to $2.50, and diesel prices jumping to $3.10.
Farmers are facing growing pressure when it comes to reliable access to diesel and fertiliser. Diesel powers tractors for sowing, harvesting, and feed distribution, while fertiliser prices – like urea, up nearly 30% in the past month – threaten crop yields.
Without reliable access, farmers face scaling back operations, livestock welfare risks, reduced productivity, and higher food prices for every Victorian family.
The New South Wales Government is rationing fuels in urban areas to prioritise their vital agriculture and freight industries. It continues to engage with transport and logistics, fuel, agriculture, local government, mining, unions, and consumer protection groups, to ensure the right decisions are made and actions taken.
Why is the Allan Labor Government still sitting on its hands, and downplaying this crisis?
Urgent engagement with the Commonwealth, fuel wholesalers, and importers is needed to prioritise agriculture in allocations and activate contingency plans.
Reliable fuel is the lifeline for our farming industry and rural communities. Inaction risks turning this regional emergency into a statewide threat to food security.
The message to the Allan Labor Government is clear – stop ignoring our farmers. Step up and support them.
