Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has acknowledged that Australia’s widely quoted 30 days of fuel reserves includes shipments that are still en route to the country, not just fuel physically stored onshore. The admission came during a heated exchange with Sunrise host Nat Barr, who questioned the accuracy of the government’s messaging as fuel shortages hit both regional towns and parts of Sydney.

Plibersek said fuel security has always been measured by combining domestic stockpiles with incoming shipments and confirmed the government had released fuel from emergency reserves and appointed a national coordinator to address distribution problems. She urged motorists to buy only what they need, while noting that Australia’s two refineries are operating at full capacity and that talks are underway with regional partners to maintain supply.

The shortages have been worsened by disruptions linked to conflict in the Middle East, with six tankers bound for Australia cancelled or delayed. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is contacting international counterparts to secure ongoing imports, while ministers say companies are increasing shipments from the United States. The opposition has called for stronger supply chains, warning that without reliable fuel distribution the economy could grind to a halt.