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This fuel crisis resource hub has been put together by the Small Business PEAK program. For a comprehensive list of support services covering education and compliance, claims and disputes, workplace support, mental health support, and industry body connections, visit the PEAK Support Services directory.

CURRENT STATUS: Stage 2

National Fuel Security Plan Active

Global conflict in the Middle East has disrupted oil supply chains. Over 600 retail fuel sites across Australia have experienced shortages, primarily in NSW and Victoria. The government has deployed emergency reserves and is actively managing distribution. Australia is operating under the National Fuel Security Plan agreed by National Cabinet.

COSBOA has compiled the most important government relief measures, financial support, fuel-finding tools, and wellbeing resources in one place.

What's Happening Right Now

Fuel Excise Cut by 50%

Active period: 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026

The fuel excise has been temporarily reduced by 32 cents per litre until 30 June 2026.

Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge Dropped to Zero

Active period: 1 April – 30 June 2026

The Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge (previously 32.4 cents per litre) has been temporarily reduced to zero. Businesses also no longer need to track public vs. private road fuel use to calculate separate Fuel Tax Credit entitlements, one less compliance task during an already pressured time.

National Reconstruction Fund — Support for Businesses

The National Reconstruction Fund offers several programs providing low or zero-interest loans to eligible businesses:

$1 billion Economic Resilience Program

Zero-interest loans for businesses in critical supply chains, including those producing and transporting fuels, plastics, fertilisers and agricultural protection chemicals

$5 billion Net Zero Fund

Supports new manufacturing investment and energy-efficiency upgrades in hard-to-abate sectors, including low-emissions technologies and low carbon liquid fuels

$150 million Forestry Growth Fund

Supports timber processing for housing construction and investment in mills and processing facilities

Contact your bank or the SBDC for referral pathways, or visit nrf.gov.au for eligibility information.

Section 1: Find Fuel for Your Business

Before you travel: check live fuel availability

Use state-based fuel finder apps to check stock availability, especially for diesel in regional areas. Plan routes around confirmed supply. Do NOT stockpile,hoarding worsens shortages and creates safety risks. Storing extra fuel at home can be dangerous if not done correctly.

Fuel Finder Apps & Tools

Northern Territory – MyFuelNT

The NT Government’s MyFuelNT tool shows live fuel prices by suburb, postcode or region across the Territory.

Tasmania – FuelCheck

The Tasmanian Government’s FuelCheck app shows live fuel prices at service stations across the state.

ACT / NSW FuelCheck

Live fuel prices and availability across NSW and ACT service stations. Download the app for on-the-go access. Essential for regional travel planning.

Victoria – Servo Saver

The Victorian Government’s Servo Saver tool helps you find the cheapest fuel prices at service stations near you. Use it to plan refuelling stops and keep fleet costs down during shortages.

South Australia – RAA Fuel Map

The RAA’s live fuel prices map helps South Australian businesses find the cheapest petrol and diesel nearby. A practical tool for planning fleet refuelling and managing day-to-day fuel costs.

WA FuelWatch

Western Australia's official fuel pricing and availability monitor. WA reports current stock levels are secure with shipments arriving.

ACCC Fuel Price Monitoring

Weekly updates on fuel prices across Australia from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Use to track cost trends for business budgeting.

NSW Government Fuel Update

Official NSW fuel supply status page updated regularly. Includes regional supply maps and information on emergency distribution measures.

Section 2: Financial Relief & Tax Support

ATO Fuel Response Plan is now open: CLOSES 30 JUNE 2026

Available until 30 June 2026

ATO Fuel Response Payment Plan

Eligible businesses and sole traders can access streamlined payment arrangements for tax debts impacted by fuel costs. Key features:

You must demonstrate a clear link between fuel cost increases and your cash flow pressure. Speak to your accountant before applying, they can apply on your behalf and negotiate the most suitable arrangement.

Section 2: Financial Relief & Tax Support

ATO Fuel Response Plan is now open: CLOSES 30 JUNE 2026

Eligible businesses and sole traders can access streamlined payment arrangements for tax debts impacted by fuel costs. Key features:

You must demonstrate a clear link between fuel cost increases and your cash flow pressure. Speak to your accountant before applying, they can apply on your behalf and negotiate the most suitable arrangement.

Fuel Tax Credits

Fuel Tax Credit rates were updated in February 2026 (20.2 cents/litre for eligible uses). Businesses can switch to monthly BAS reporting to receive credits sooner and improve cash flow.
The ATO urges businesses to use the official Fuel Tax Credit Calculator to ensure they receive every cent they’re entitled to. Separate fuel used for idling and powering auxiliary equipment to maximise your claim.

Section 3: Government Programs & Advisory

National Resources

business.gov.au: Grants & Support Finder

Search for grants, loans and support programs relevant to your business type, location and situation. Filter by crisis-related support categories.

Australian Small Business Advisory Services (ASBAS)

Free, low-cost business advisory services funded by the federal government. Get personalised advice on cash flow, supply chain and business continuity planning.

National Fuel Security Plan: PM&C

The full National Cabinet plan, including the four escalation levels, government responsibilities, and measures being used at each stage of the crisis.

State Government Resources

New South Wales

NSW has activated emergency powers to manage fuel distribution across the state. The NSW Minister for Energy has directed all fuel companies to provide detailed supply chain information.

Victoria

Victoria has made all metro and regional public transport free throughout April 2026. Businesses can encourage staff to use public transport to reduce fleet fuel consumption. Extra services have been added to handle higher patronage.

Public Transport Victoria: ptv.vic.gov.au

Western Australia

WA currently reports over 30 days of reserves with shipments arriving. FuelWatch is operational. The state government is monitoring supply chains and reporting to National Cabinet.

WA FuelWatch: fuelwatch.wa.gov.au

Tasmania

Tasmania has made all buses and Derwent River ferries free from 30 March through 1 July 2026. The government estimates commuters will save between $20 and $88 per week.

Queensland, South Australia & ACT

These states have not announced major fuel-specific relief measures beyond participation in the federal excise cut and national fuel security arrangements.

Section 4: Adapting Your Business Operations

Action Checklist

Section 4: Wellbeing Support for You and Your Team

Running a small business during a crisis is genuinely hard

Financial stress, supply uncertainty, and staff pressures take a real toll on business owners and their teams. Please reach out, the services below are free, confidential, and staffed by people who understand the particular pressure of running your own business. You do not have to wait until things are critical. Beyond Blue has specifically activated support following the Prime Minister’s national address about the fuel crisis impact.

Crisis & Mental Health Helplines

Online Resources & Support Programs

NewAccess for Small Business Owners (Beyond Blue)

A free mental health coaching program specifically for small business owners. Six sessions with a trained coach to help manage stress, anxiety and low mood. No doctor referral required.

Lifeline Australia

24/7 crisis support by phone, text and chat. Also offers resources for financial hardship stress and crisis planning for community organisations.

National Mental Health Commission

Directory of mental health services, workplace resources and crisis support programs. Includes resources specifically for people experiencing economic hardship and business stress.

Fair Work Ombudsman: Workplace obligations during a crisis

Information on managing reduced hours, stood-down employees, and your obligations to staff during economic hardship. Free advisory service available by phone.