By Lauren Henry

At least 109 outlets in Victoria were out of one or more fuel grades – including 50 without diesel – at the end of last week, including some in the Wimmera.

As the war in the Middle East continues, Australia’s access to fuel is at risk, and forcing costs to escalate. 

Diesel prices at most fuel stations across the Wimmera were at $2.99, with some jumping above $3, particularly in the north of the region.

Meanwhile, the fuel crisis has dominated government debate, following the revelation that six of the 81 oil ships due to arrive in April have been cancelled or delayed. 

The Federal Government is trying to fill the gap by sourcing oil from countries other than the usual Asian suppliers, and has also dipped into emergency reserves.

The government says there is at least enough fuel to get through the next few weeks, but there is concern that if the Middle East conflict continues, more ships will be cancelled and Australia’s fuel crisis will worsen.

Looking ahead, the government is considering proposals from the International Energy Agency on how Australians can help save fuel: work from home; avoid flying; reduce speed; carpool; public transport; and plate rotation system to limit which vehicles can drive on specific days.

Member for Mallee Anne Webster said communities across her electorate were running out of fuel and facing skyrocketing costs.

“Communities across Mallee are already experiencing fuel shortages, with towns including Donald, Wedderburn, Robinvale, Ultima, Rainbow and Ouyen reporting bowsers running empty,” Dr Webster said.

“In Donald, I have been told diesel prices are increasing by as much as 10 cents per day. That is simply unsustainable for households, small businesses and primary producers.

“This is not just a global crisis – it is a failure of the Albanese government and Minister Chris Bowen to ensure Australia has adequate fuel security and supply when and where it matters most.”

The fuel crisis is also forcing a shortage of fertiliser, particularly urea, for farmers who need to start planting crops soon.

Dr Webster said the crisis was placing enormous pressure on farmers at a critical time in the agricultural calendar.

She said farmers had been waiting for three weeks for fuel.

“Farmers are facing rising input costs for both fuel and urea fertiliser, coupled with real uncertainty about whether they will be able to access the supplies they need,” she said.

“There is a genuine risk that seeding and harvest operations will be disrupted. That doesn’t just affect farmers – it flows through to the entire economy and ultimately hits families at the supermarket checkout.”

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy urged the State Government to take action and secure reliable supplies before critical winter cropping and livestock feeding operations suffer.

She said disruptions at this time of year risked reduced yields, serious livestock welfare issues, and higher food prices for every family.  

Ms Kealy said the government must immediately engage with the Commonwealth, fuel wholesalers, and fertiliser importers, to prioritise agriculture in supply allocations, and activate contingency measures. 

During question time in Victorian Parliament last week, Ms Kealy highlighted the government’s inaction and the plight of Wimmera farmers, many of whom have contacted her after being unable to secure enough fuel for the imminent cropping season.

She said some farmers had been told they would not be able to secure any diesel, and only have enough stored on-farm to plant 25 per cent of this year’s crop.

Ms Kealy said fuel shortages had put rural and regional communities under enormous strain, particularly farmers.

“We are at a critical point when it comes to food security in Victoria and agricultural security, and without continuity of fuel supply, Victoria will grind to a halt,” she said.

“Without fuel, there is no food. Farmers also rely on fuel to be able to mix their feed, to apply fertilisers, to manage stock, and to get goods to and from farms.

“For many of our local distributors, this is not just about higher prices – it is about whether they can secure supply at all.

“It is critical the government uses any mechanism available to ensure our farmers have the fuel they need to get the crops in the ground that produce our food.

“Injecting supply into the spot market is a practical step to stabilise prices and restore availability where it is needed most.”

•  More on the fuel crisis and how it is affecting farmers in AgLife, page 27.

The entire March 25, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire March 25, 2026 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!