Regional Cities Victoria to raise fuel security concerns in Canberra 

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MEDIA RELEASE

17 March 2026

RCV has written to the Federal Energy Minister calling for regional communities to be prioritised in the event of serious supply disruptions. 

“The Commonwealth has powers under Australia’s fuel security legislation to manage supply during emergencies,” RCV Chair Cr Ben Blain said. 

“If supply becomes constrained, regional communities and industries must not be left at the back of the queue.” 

A delegation from RCV will raise growing concerns about fuel prices and supply reliability during meetings in Canberra next week. 

Cr Blain said escalating tensions in the Middle East and the resulting volatility in global fuel markets were already placing pressure on regional households, businesses and industries. 

“When prices rise or supply tightens, regional communities feel it first and hardest,” Cr Blain said. 

“Our regional cities are key freight hubs that connect farms, factories and communities to the rest of the country. Access to fuel cannot be optional – it is essential.” 

RCV is particularly concerned about the impact on smaller rural towns and farming communities – already dealing with drought conditions and bushfire recovery – where fuel underpins almost every aspect of agricultural production and transport. 

“Fuel supply is not just an economic issue in these areas, it’s critical to the survival of local industries and communities,” Cr Blain said. 

“When fuel costs surge, it becomes more expensive to move goods in and out. That puts pressure on local businesses, local jobs and the cost of living not just for the regions but for everyone. 

“That’s why we’ll be taking this issue to Canberra next week and asking the Federal Government to ensure Victoria’s regional communities – and the rural towns they support – are protected if fuel supply pressures escalate.”