Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean said the shortages, both real and perceived, are causing deep concern across the region.
“Our farming community is entering a crucial sowing period, and the limited availability of diesel fuel is already creating serious challenges,” she said.
“We are hearing that suppliers are refusing new customers and are only guaranteeing minimal quantities, at premium prices, to existing clients.
“Anything beyond the bare minimum required for sowing is not being assured. This threatens the ability of our farmers to carry out essential operations beyond planting.”
Cr Cornwell McKean noted that while some initial action has been taken at the federal level - including Monday’s announcement that halving the fuel excise would reduce the cost of petrol and diesel by 26.3 cents a litre for three months - the shire is still awaiting a formal response.
“We are pleased to see early steps being taken, but we are awaiting clear commitments and concrete measures. Our community needs certainty.
“We are in the heart of Australia’s food bowl. Our farmers are already under strain, paying premium rates for water due to ongoing drought conditions. We are calling on the government to provide financial relief on fuel costs for our farmers.”
The council says the fuel situation is placing real pressure on the shire’s tourism sector, which depends heavily on the upcoming Easter holiday period to carry operators through the quieter winter months.
“Our tourism businesses are already under strain, and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority’s continued failure to manage river levels appropriately during a peak visitation period has only made matters worse,” Cr Cornwell McKean said.
Adding to these challenges, misinformation about fuel availability is actively discouraging visitors from travelling to the region.
“We are hearing that some tourists are reconsidering their plans because they fear they won’t be able to refuel for the trip home.
“Rumours and disinformation are hurting local businesses and undermining confidence.
“We call on the Albanese Government to provide clear, public reassurance that fuel will be available, and to make it clear to political opponents that spreading misinformation has real consequences for communities like ours.”
Cr Cornwell McKean also urged residents and farmers to report any fuel access issues directly to council.
“Every real-world example strengthens our advocacy. If you are experiencing difficulties accessing fuel, we want to hear from you so we can take those concerns straight to the decision-makers.”
