Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivers an address to the nation. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Anthony Albanese has tonight (Wednesday 1 April) delivered a Prime Minister’s address to the nation, warning Australians the months ahead may not be easy due to the impacts of the war in the Middle East, and asking them to act responsibly when it comes to fuel consumption.
In a pre-recorded message broadcast simultaneously across television and radio networks at 7 pm, the Prime Minister outlined the Federal Government’s initiatives in response to the conflict
“By nature, we’re an optimistic country. But I understand that right now it’s hard to be positive,” Mr Albanese said.
“The war in the Middle East has caused the biggest spike in petrol and diesel prices in history.
“Australia is not an active participant in this war but all Australians are paying higher prices because of it.
“I know that you’re seeing this at the servo and at the supermarket, and I understand farmers and truckies, small businesses and families are doing it tough.
“And the reality is, the economic shocks caused by this war will be with us for months.”
Speaking directly to the nation, the PM said he wanted to share details of what the government was doing to “shield Australia in these uncertain times” and also make suggestions as to what everyone could do to “help our country and help each other” in the period ahead.
He discussed Monday’s National Cabinet meeting that adopted a National Fuel Security Plan to keep Australia moving and make sure the country is prepared for what might come.
If the global situation gets worse and fuel supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term, he said, federal, state and territory governments could co-ordinate the next steps together.
The fuel excise was cut in half from today, with the 26 cents a litre savings already showing up at some petrol stations.
For truckies, the government has cut the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge to zero.
“Both these measures will be in place for the next three months. We are working to bring the price of fuel down,” the Prime Minister said.
“To make more fuel here and to keep it onshore; and get more fuel here – using our strong trading relationships with our region to bring more petrol, diesel and fertiliser to Australia.
“Now, it’s the Australian way that people want to do their bit – and there are simple ways that you can.
“You should go about your business and your life, as normal. Enjoy your Easter.
“If you’re hitting the road, don’t take more fuel than you need – just fill up like you normally would.
“Think of others in your community, in the bush and in critical industries; and over coming weeks, if you can switch to catching the train or bus or tram to work, do so.
“That builds our reserves and it saves fuel for people who have no choice but to drive – farmers and miners and tradies who need diesel, every single day, and all those shift workers and nurses, who do so much for our country.
“The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that.
“No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing.
“I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it.
“These are uncertain times. But I am absolutely certain of this: we will deal with these global challenges, the Australian way. Working together and looking after each other, as we always have.”
A Prime Minister’s address to the nation is a rare thing, usually only occurring during times of crisis or significant national developments.
Scott Morrison delivered a televised address to the nation in 2020 when the impacts of the COVID pandemic were just beginning. Kevin Rudd delivered one in 2008 during the global financial crisis.
John Howard addressed the nation twice, once in 1997 over native title and again in 2003 when he committed Australian troops to a war in Iraq.
Paul Keating delivered an address to the nation in 1993 to outline his government’s response to the High Court’s Mabo decision.
Original Article published by Chris Johnson on Region Canberra.
