April 2026 monthly column by Janelle Saffin MP, State Member for Lismore
I AM well aware of the hike in fuel prices, and the pressure that is putting on people across the region due to the conflict in the Middle East.
While global pressures are beyond our control, the NSW Government is taking practical steps to monitor supplies and ensure even fuel distribution around the state.
Premier Chris Minns said there is more fuel in the country now than there was in January, however, issues with uneven distribution have meant some petrol stations have struggled to get supplies.
As the local member I am engaged and making sure regional fuel needs are being addressed.
The Minns Labor Government is taking action to strengthen coordination across the fuel supply chain to protect petrol and diesel supplies for regional and rural communities.
The NSW Minister for Energy has issued formal notices to a number of liquid fuel companies compelling them to provide detailed information on fuel supplies and distribution, with heavy penalties for non-compliance.
The companies are required to provide information to help the SW Government determine if the supply of liquid fuel to NSW is, or is likely to be, significantly disrupted and to help us with fair distribution.
“The NSW Government has also set up a Fuel Emergency Operations Centre to track fuel availability across the state in real time.
“The Operations Centre will assess demand across critical regional industries, including agriculture and construction and work with industry to redirect fuel to areas most in need.
As well, the Minister for Fair Trading has inspectors out in force around the state, including in the Northern Rivers, ensuring that service stations are displaying correct fuel prices on site and in the NSW Fuelcheck app.
Inspectors have been checking to confirm the fuel and price shown on service stations signs matches what is in the Fuelcheck app at the time.
“Motorists can download the NSW Fuelcheck app or go to www.fuelcheck.nsw.gov,au/app for daily information on fuel prices as in indication of availability.
“It’s important that motorists don’t buy more fuel at the bowser than they need.”
Caption: Janelle Saffin and NSW Premier Chris Minns at a Business Roundtable in the Lismore Electorate in March.
