Fuel security update for councils
12 October 2026
Current advice is that Australia’s fuel security remains strong, with no immediate impact on fuel supply.
However, fuel prices remain elevated, placing increasing pressure on businesses, primary producers and households across the state.
Key points from the briefing include:
- Fuel supply: There is potential for the United States and/or China to reduce fuel exports amid escalating international events. However, there is currently no immediate impact on Australia’s fuel supply.
- National fuel security: Australia continues to hold significant fuel stocks and has secure incoming supplies. The fuel market remains adaptable in responding to changes in supply and distribution.
- Business and industry pressures: High fuel costs are creating significant financial challenges for South Australian industries.
- Impacts across sectors: Primary production, housing and construction, transport and small businesses are experiencing increased cost pressures.
- Upcoming harvest: Concerns were raised about fuel affordability and availability for upcoming harvest operations, particularly for primary producers.
- Cost-of-living impacts: Higher fuel costs are flowing through to households, both directly and through increased prices for goods and services.
An upcoming meeting between the Prime Minister and state and territory Premiers is expected to further discuss fuel security and the broader economic impacts.Our team continues to attend the monthly fuel updates and is currently monitoring updates coming out of the Fair Work Commission's Expert Panel hearing on 9 October.
LGA will continue to monitor developments and keep councils informed of relevant updates if there are any changes to the situation.