Overview
- Multiple country towns including Robinvale, Hattah, Wedderburn and Bonnie Doon reported running out of fuel, prompting $50 rationing at some outlets and limited restocks.
- The federal government is releasing up to 762 million litres from emergency reserves, and the environment minister says Australia holds roughly 37 days of petrol and 30 days of diesel.
- The proposed 60‑day allowance to sell higher‑sulphur fuel remains unapproved, with final sign‑off not expected until later this week.
- Industry representatives say national supply is adequate but local shortages reflect distribution bottlenecks and panic buying.
- States have rolled out stopgap measures, with WA allowing heavier road trains and NSW convening fuel security talks, as harvest operations in farming communities face immediate disruption.