Month: March 2026

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

he Albanese Government has appointed Anthea Harris as Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator – a new role, supporting the work governments around the country are doing to ensure Australia is overprepared and quick to respond when facing fuel and other supply chain challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East.

The Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator will be responsible for the following: 

• Leading a new Fuel Supply Taskforce that will be established in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
• Driving coordination between the Commonwealth and the States and Territories on fuel security and supply chain resilience.
• Providing consistent, coordinated updates to the Commonwealth and States and Territories on our fuel supply outlook as well as our domestic fuel distribution.
• Supporting State and Territory governments to get fuels to their regions where they are in demand, and act as a single convening point for fuel supply and forward planning.

The Commonwealth Government is responsible for national fuel security and supply, and will work with States and Territories to support distribution within their jurisdictions.

This is a cross portfolio coordination role, ensuring the decisions of Government are implemented quickly and smoothly.

With shortages in specific areas due to an increase in demand in some locations, and further supply chain challenges expected throughout coming weeks and months, Ms Harris’s taskforce will lead coordination work to ensure the best outcomes for Australians and Australian businesses.

Anthea Harris is formerly the CEO of the Australian Energy Regulator and the former Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Security Board. Prior to this, she was Deputy Secretary of the Energy Group within the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

Australia is well prepared for the challenges coming from the Middle East conflict, and our fuel supply is currently secure.

Since the conflict commenced two weeks ago the Commonwealth government has taken swift action to: 

• Release up to 20 per cent of our diesel and fuel reserves to help address regional shortages.
• Temporarily amend national fuel standards to keep more Australian-made fuels onshore
• Crack down on petrol company price gouging.

This appointment is the next step in shielding Australia from the worst of the economic challenges coming from the Middle East.

The Australian Government will be announcing more measures to prepare the nation for supply chain challenges over coming days and weeks.

Quotes attributable to the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese

“I want to reassure Australians – Australia is well prepared.

“Our fuel supply is currently secure – but I want us to be over-prepared.

“Anthea Harris is the right person to lead the work across governments ensuring fuel supply remains resilient and challenges coming from the Middle East are dealt with here in the Australian way – looking after each other and facing problems together.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy of Australia, Chris Bowen

“Australia has entered this period of global uncertainty better prepared than before – our fuel reserves are now held onshore, we’ve invested in our refineries, and we’ve acted quickly to address localised supply shortages.

“Since the conflict commenced two weeks ago the Albanese Government has taken swift action to release up to 20 per cent of our diesel and fuel reserves to help address regional shortages, temporarily amend national fuel standards to keep more Australian-made fuels onshore, and crack down on petrol companies ripping off Australian consumers.

“Today’s announcement of the eminently qualified Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator is the next step in preparing and responding to the supply chain challenges coming from overseas.”

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

he Prime Minister convened National Cabinet today to address fuel security and supply chain resilience in Australia in response to the conflict in the Middle East.

First Ministers were provided a situation update from the Director General of the Office of National Intelligence Kathy Klugmann and the Director General of Security and Head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Mike Burgess.

Leaders agreed that while Australia is well prepared and current supply is secure, the nation must be prepared for all scenarios.

Leaders reinforced their commitment to prioritise securing fuel supply for Australian industry and households, while also shielding Australians from higher prices. Leaders acknowledged that the longer the conflict in the Middle East goes on, the more significant the impact will be for global supply chains, fuel prices, and the wider economy.

The conflict in the Middle East is an unprecedented shock to global energy markets. The International Energy Agency has called it the biggest in history. Already Australians are feeling the consequences at the bowser.

Leaders reiterated their collective mission is to protect Australians from the economic consequences of the global conflict and to ensure continued fuel security, while building economic resilience for the long term. Australia is well placed to do both.

The Commonwealth will appoint Anthea Harris as Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator to support coordination across governments and sectors.

Anthea Harris is formerly the CEO of the Australian Energy Regulator and the former Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Security Board. Prior to this, she was Deputy Secretary of the Energy Group within the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

The Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator will be responsible for the following: 

• Leading a new Fuel Supply Taskforce that will be established in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in Canberra.
• Driving coordination between the Commonwealth and the States and Territories on fuel security and supply chain resilience.
• Providing consistent, coordinated updates to the Commonwealth and States and Territories on our fuel supply outlook as well as our domestic fuel distribution.
• Act as a single convening point for fuel supply and forward planning.

Leaders agreed that national coordination is essential to support States and Territories using the powers and plans they have in place regarding fuel distribution.

The Commonwealth Government is responsible for national fuel security and supply and will work with States and Territories to support distribution within their jurisdictions.

Leaders reiterated that Australia is in a good position at present and does not have an overall fuel shortage at this time. However, there are some shortages in specific areas due to an increase in demand in those locations. 

National Cabinet Leaders agreed that every Australian can play a part in helping right now by only purchasing the fuel that they need.

Leaders urged all Australians to consider others in need and not to over buy. That is not the Australian way.

Leaders agreed that the best outcome is to ensure Australia is over prepared. Today’s announcement reinforces that approach.

Since the conflict commenced two weeks ago the Commonwealth government has taken swift action on fuel to: 

• Release up to 20 per cent of our diesel and fuel reserves to help address regional shortages.
• Temporarily amend national fuel standards to keep more Australian-made fuels onshore.
• Crack down on petrol companies price gouging.

Energy Ministers and officials are working closely to coordinate fuel supply updates around the country including through the National Oil Supplies Emergency Committee.

The National Coordination Mechanism has convened several discussions with industry and states and territories.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs is engaging key international counterparts to help ensure the continued flow of fuel and diesel shipments to Australia from our trade partners.

The Australian Government will be announcing more measures to prepare the nation for supply chain challenges over coming days and weeks.

This media statement has been agreed by First Ministers and serves as a record of meeting outcomes.

Anthony Albanese MP
< Prime Minister 

Chris Minns MP
< Premier of NSW

Jacinta Allan MP
< Premier of Victoria

David Crisafulli MP
< Premier of Queensland

Roger Cook MLA
< Premier of Western Australia

Peter Malinauskas MP
< Premier of South Australia 

Jeremy Rockliff MP
< Premier of Tasmania

Andrew Barr MLA
< Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory

Lia Finocchiaro MLA
< Chief Minister of the Northern Territory

Source: Airservices Australia

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today released its March 2026 Financial Stability Review.

The Review highlights that risks to the global financial system have increased. The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has contributed to sharp movements in global financial markets, while the risk of operational, cyber and security disruptions is heightened.

The RBA finds that Australia’s financial system is well placed to handle an increasingly uncertain global environment.

• Most borrowers are in a solid financial position and remain able to manage increases in cost pressures, though some will face growing challenges.
• Australian banks are in a strong position to continue supporting the economy, even if conditions deteriorate sharply.

In this environment, it is important that financial institutions continue to build both resilience to liquidity, operational and geopolitical shocks and maintain prudent lending standards.

Source: Government of Victoria 3

Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

The ACCC has launched an enforcement investigation into allegations of anti-competitive conduct by each of the major fuel suppliers, Ampol Ltd, BP Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, and Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd.

The ACCC received reports concerning diesel availability to independent wholesalers and distributors servicing regional and rural Australia. This investigation will assess the alleged conduct.

“The ACCC is closely scrutinising all fuel markets during this period, and we have received reports of alleged anti-competitive behaviour. We are therefore investigating these matters urgently,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

“It is not our usual practice to publicly announce investigations, but given the significance of the issue, the ACCC is confirming this enforcement investigation. We recognise the widespread concerns held by consumers, businesses and farmers about fuel pricing and supply issues arising during the Middle Eastern conflict.”

“It is important that fuel market participants and the community know that we are closely watching market conduct in relation to all fuels and we will not hesitate to act swiftly to enforce Australia’s competition and consumer laws,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

“Our investigation is at a preliminary stage, and therefore we are yet to form a view about these matters.”

Background

The ACCC is an independent statutory government authority and Australia’s peak consumer protection and competition agency. 

The ACCC uses a range of tools to promote and enforce compliance with the Competition and Consumer Act. 

The ACCC will publish the next weekly update of the monitoring report of fuel prices in Australian capital cities, with the inclusion of prices in 190 regional locations, on Friday.

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

ANDY TAYLOR, HOST: Right now, we are talking to the Prime Minister of Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is in the state right now and he joins us live on Triple M. Welcome back to the show, Prime Minister.

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Source: Prime Minister of Australia

RYK GODDARD, HOST: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, good morning. Welcome to Tassie.

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Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Six-year-old Ollie, one of the 2026 Faces of the Good Friday Appeal (GFA), was recently treated to a morning as a firefighter, visiting Diamond Creek Fire Station to bravely learn the ropes.

Ollie jumped eagerly into fire gear and looked comfortable behind the steering wheel of a stationary fire truck, quickly learning how to turn the flashing lights on – and how to use the hose.

Having undergone two open heart surgeries after he was diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect called truncus arteriosus, Ollie is hoping to raise awareness of the Appeal to help other kids just like him.

Ollie’s mum Jacinta said getting the opportunity to be a part of it has been a surreal experience.

“The Royal Children’s Hospital has been phenomenal to us. It has been generational and we’re forever indebted for what they’ve done for us and our family,” Jacinta said.

“Ollie has taken to the role so well (Face of the Appeal) and taken it in his stride, it has been amazing. He is just really happy to give back and be involved in this way.

“Victorians do really give deep to the Appeal as we have seen over the last 95 years, everyone always gives so generously, so please give to children like Oliver so they can all thrive.”

Fiona Macken, 3rd Lieutenant of Diamond Creek Fire Brigade said it was fantastic having Ollie down for the day to highlight the importance of the Appeal, in what is CFA’s 75^th year of support.

“He is a lot of fun, and we had a lot of fun too. He has taught us a thing or two about having fun with water and he has a great spirit and great attitude,” Fiona said.

“Keep an eye out for our trucks this Good Friday, we’d love to smash our fundraising goal this year. We really encourage the community to donate whatever they can, big or small.”

The brigade has fundraised over a number of years since the 1950s, however have more recently ramped up their fundraising efforts from 2018, raising more than $43,451 since then.

Firefighter and former Diamond Creek GFA Brigade Coordinator Antoinette Calleja, has a proud history running the collection days and said it is a day out for the entire brigade and their kids.

“We have a lot of fun. We meet at the station in the morning, have hot cross buns for breakfast, and allocate all the vehicles and locations of where everyone will be heading,” Antoinette said.  

“We start at the Tram cafe and Diamond Creek Regional Playspace to hang out with the kids, then make our way out around town. The kids come running out with their money boxes!”

Donned with GFA banners and easter eggs, all vehicles and members return at midday to a fish and chip lunch before four members head to the city to drop off the collections.

The community remains strongly connected to the Appeal, with many local kids requiring the services of the Royal Children’s Hospital, including Antoinette’s children and family friends, and former brigade member, the late Rod Miloschew who was born with spina bifida.

Current GFA Brigade Coordinator Andrew McNamara’s wife is also a nurse at the hospital.

Make this Friday a Good Friday. Give what you can – in person or donate online at https://fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/find-a-fundraiser

Submitted by	CFA media

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

rime Minister Anthony Albanese will welcome the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to Australia from Monday, 23 March to Wednesday 25 March 2026.

The Prime Minister will meet with President von der Leyen in Canberra on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.

This will be President von der Leyen’s first visit to Australia as President of the European Commission, and the 7th meeting between the leaders.

President von der Leyen will be accompanied by EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič.

The relationship between Australia and the European Union is built on a shared commitment to democratic values and a likeminded approach to security and trade.

We cooperate on a broad range of international issues, including maintaining the multilateral rules-based trading system, security and defence, climate change, critical minerals and meaningful social media reform for the protection of young people.

Prime Minister Albanese and President von der Leyen will continue discussions on how Australia and the European Union can further strengthen the relationship.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“I look forward to welcoming President von der Leyen to Australia and continuing discussions to further expand our cooperation.

“Australia and Europe are friends and partners, working together to advance peace, security and economic prosperity.

“The visit to Australia by President von der Leyen is an important opportunity to continue that work.”

Source: Tasmania Police

Update – Fatal boating incident, Marion Bay

Wednesday, 18 March 2026 – 5:10 pm.

Sadly, a woman has died following a boating incident at Marion Narrows, in Marion Bay, today.
The woman was one of four people on a 4.5m, fibreglass hull recreational vessel, when it struck difficulty about 600m offshore about 11.45am.
Three people were thrown into the water when the boat rocked after it hit the chop’ or wave of another vessel.
The alarm was raised by the one person remaining on board, who called 000 (triple zero).
Two men in the water were helped to safety by a nearby vessel which answered the call for help.
A third person in the water – a Tasmanian woman believed to be aged in her 70s – was unaccounted for and sadly, has since been located deceased.
Tasmania Police Commander Jason Elmer said investigations were continuing, with a report to be prepared for the coroner. 
“This is a tragic outcome for this woman’s family, her friends and her loved ones and our thoughts and condolences go out to them at this time,” Commander Elmer said.
“In acknowledging that this is a terribly difficult time for the family and loved ones of the victim, Police would like to thank those members of the public on nearby vessels who came to the assistance of the group. Their actions have helped prevent potential further tragedy.”
Two people have been taken to hospital for treatment, with their injuries believed to be non life-threatening.