The tourism sector has welcomed the Federal Government’s fuel security measures, which will help restore confidence for travellers planning trips across the country.
Margy Osmond, Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia CEO, said the package unveiled ahead of next week’s Budget to increase Australia’s diesel and jet fuel reserves would play an important role in supporting the visitor economy, but noted the benefits would take time to flow through.
“These measures are a critical step towards boosting fuel supplies over the long term to help more Australians feel confident in booking a holiday and getting back on the road,” said Ms Osmond.
“In the meantime, ensuring travellers have clear and reliable information about fuel availability is just as important for maintaining confidence.”
Ms Osmond said uncertainty around fuel availability was already impacting travel decisions, particularly for regional and remote destinations.
“We’ve seen growing hesitation from travellers considering longer road trips, particularly into regional and remote areas, where confidence in fuel availability is essential,” she said.
“Anything that improves certainty, whether through supply or better information, will help encourage more people to take that road trip and support visitation to these communities.”
Ms Osmond said TTF continued to advocate for a single, nationally consistent fuel information platform to support trip planning and improve confidence for motorists.
“A national fuel information platform, through an app and website, would give travellers a clear, reliable picture of fuel availability across the country and make it easier to plan trips, particularly into regional Australia,” she said.
Ms Osmond also praised the Federal Government’s announcement for supporting aviation fuel resilience and national connectivity.
“Increasing jet fuel reserves is an important step in helping manage future supply disruptions and maintain reliable air services for tourism, businesses and regional communities.”
She said recent global events had highlighted the importance of reliable fuel supply for both land and air travel.
“Consistent access to fuel underpins not just travel, but the broader supply chains that keep tourism operators running, from accommodation to attractions and transport services.”
She said TTF would continue to work closely with government and industry partners to support a strong, connected and resilient tourism sector.
