Australia Creates Fuel Supply Task Force Over Middle East Conflict

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the creation of a national fuel supply task force on Thursday in Hobart, Tasmania, following a meeting with state and territory leaders, as concerns mount over potential shortages triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The task force, aimed at coordinating fuel security and supply chain resilience across federal, state, and territory governments, will be led by Anthea Harris, a former chief executive of the Australian Energy Regulator and the Energy Security Board, as well as a former deputy secretary in Victoria's energy department. Albanese described Harris as possessing unmatched expertise for the role, which will serve as a central hub for monitoring supplies and providing regular updates. Each state and territory will appoint a dedicated liaison to work with the group, building on existing forums like the National Coordination Mechanism.

The announcement comes amid reports of fuel shortages at some regional petrol stations, particularly in rural areas, where diesel availability to independent wholesalers has been strained. Government officials maintain that Australia's overall fuel supply remains secure and...