The federal government has locked in another 100 million litres of diesel this week, taking its seven-day total to 400 million litres as it works to protect transport and logistics operators from ongoing Middle East supply volatility.
Around 50 million litres – approximately 300,000 barrels – is bound for Queensland, with Townsville, Gladstone and Mackay among the priority destinations. The deliveries follow new supply agreements with Ampol, alongside existing partnerships with BP Australia and Viva Energy.
Ministers Farrell and Bowen said the government’s new Strategic Reserve powers had been critical in securing the additional cargoes, with negotiations continuing with Park Fuels, IOR, Incitec Pivot and CSBP to shore up further fuel and fertiliser shipments in the coming weeks.
Operators in regional and rural areas have been among the most exposed to tightening diesel supplies, with the government flagging those communities as a priority for incoming stock.
