Full Story Energy minister Chris Bowen on the impact of the fuel crisis
9 snips
Apr 3, 2026 
Chris Bowen, Australia’s energy and climate minister, explains national fuel stocks and why shortages at some pumps have not yet hit supply. He discusses city versus regional outages, prioritising diesel for farmers, coordination with states and fuel firms, the four-stage response plan, sourcing alternative cargoes and how renewables and electrifying freight factor into future security.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
National Fuel Stocks Are Currently Secure
- National fuel stocks remain intact despite local pump shortages.
- Bowen says Australia has 39 days of petrol, 30 days of diesel and 30 days of jet fuel and deliveries contracted through April and May.
Diesel Prioritised For Farmers During Seeding
- The government prioritised diesel deliveries to farmers during seeding.
- Bowen says concentrating on farmers' diesel kept tractors running despite increasing service station outages in New South Wales.
Avoid Panic Buying Over Easter
- Use only the fuel you need and be sensible over holiday periods.
- Bowen asks people not to panic buy and says government is not asking Australians to cancel holidays but to avoid taking more petrol than necessary.