Albanese Announces Major Diesel Acquisition by Viva Energy
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed that Viva Energy has successfully secured two new shipments of diesel, amounting to a total of 100 million litres. This achievement comes with the backing of the federal government's program designed to underwrite fuel purchases, aimed at bolstering Australia's energy security.
Government Support and International Sources
During a press conference held in Malaysia, Albanese confirmed the details of the acquisition. The shipments are sourced from Brunei, where the Prime Minister visited recently, and South Korea. The government extended assistance through Export Finance Australia to major refineries, including Viva and Ampol, to facilitate the procurement of new fuel and fertiliser supplies.
Albanese emphasised that this move is part of broader efforts to stabilise fuel markets, as diesel prices have surged to record highs. He noted that Australia is exploring additional fuel supplies from regions such as the United States, Mexico, and Asia to mitigate the impact of these price spikes.
Impact of Geelong Refinery Fire
The announcement follows a significant fire at Viva's refinery in Geelong, which occurred earlier today. Albanese stated that the extent of the damage is still under assessment, but the secured diesel shipments are expected to help address potential shortages. In a government statement, it was highlighted that "additional fuel can be directed to where it is needed most, including to our farmers, to our regional communities, and to the services that all Australians rely on."
Future Expectations and Strategic Measures
Speaking from Malaysia, Albanese indicated that these two shipments are "the first of many expected" to be secured under the government's initiative. The program aims to enhance fuel resilience and support critical sectors across the nation. This development underscores the government's proactive approach to managing energy resources amidst global market fluctuations and domestic challenges.
