GOVERNMENT FORCED TO ADOPT COALITION FUEL TAX CUT

GOVERNMENT FORCED TO ADOPT COALITION FUEL TAX CUT

The Albanese Government this week adopted the Coalition’s plan to deliver immediate fuel price relief to Australians, announcing a three-month cut to fuel excise and relief for heavy vehicle operators.

This decision follows sustained pressure from the Coalition, which has called for the fuel tax to be halved and the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge reduced to ease the growing cost burden on households and businesses.

Under the Government’s announcement, motorists will receive a reduction of around 26 cents per litre for three months, with the heavy vehicle road user charge reduced over the same period. Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the outcome confirmed the Coalition had led on the issue while the Government delayed.

“The Coalition has been clear, Australians needed immediate relief at the bowser and support for the industries that keep this country moving,” Mr Pasin said.

Mr Pasin said the Coalition had consistently called for decisive action as the fuel crisis deepened, warning that families, farmers and freight operators were being squeezed by rising costs.

“This is a practical measure to halve the fuel tax for three months and reduce the heavy vehicle road user charge because it delivers real, immediate relief,” he said.

Initially Labor rejected that approach before the Prime Minister was forced to concede and act in the interests of Australian consumers.

“It should not take the Opposition to do the heavy lifting to get the Government to act. Australians needed leadership earlier, and they needed it with urgency.

While Mr Pasin welcomes this relief, particularly with Easter just days away, he said serious concerns remain about the Government’s broader response to the fuel crisis.

“I welcome the announcement of a national fuel security plan, but this Government has a track record of big announcements and weak delivery. We will examine the detail carefully to ensure it is practical and fit for purpose.

“The reality is we still do not have a clear plan to get fuel to where it is needed. It is not good enough to say supply exists when hundreds of service stations are running dry.

“And the Government still has not ruled out heavy-handed mandates. Australians do not want Canberra telling them how to live and work, especially when so many jobs simply cannot be done from home.