Wharfies call for “coordinated action” on fuel security

“URGENT, coordinated action” is required to restore Australia’s fuel security and supply chain sovereignty, the Maritime Union says.

The union has also reiterated earlier calls for a fleet of Australian-flagged tankers.

MUA national secretary Jake Field said earlier warnings about risks to Australia’s petroleum supply chain were becoming reality.

Mr Field said Australia was being forced to compete on the open market for fuel cargoes, with no Australian-controlled tanker fleet able to step in.

“Multinational shipping cartels and oil companies determine whether Australia’s fuel needs are met, with no obligation to prioritise this country or protect consumers from price shocks,” Mr Field said.

“Our ability to move fuel to where it is needed, whether for industry, transport, agriculture or emergency response, is now dependent on decisions made offshore.

“The MUA is calling for urgent, coordinated action to restore Australia’s fuel security and supply chain sovereignty.”

Mr Field said the establishment of a Fuel Security Taskforce was a good first step.

“But it must be empowered to provide recommendations beyond the current crisis.

“Australia must operate its fuel supply chains on a ‘just in case’ basis instead of ‘just in time’.”

Mr Field said Australia needed targeted investment in domestic refining capacity.

“Existing refineries should be upgraded to process Australian crude for Australian use, reducing our reliance on imported oil to strengthening local supply,” he said.

Mr Field said Australia must rebuild its sovereign shipping capability.

“This includes mapping vulnerabilities in the petroleum supply chain and implementing measures to support the return of Australian-flagged tankers to our coast,” he said.

“Previous proposals have shown this can be achieved at minimal cost to consumers, while delivering significant national benefit.”

He said government must act on the recommendations of the Strategic Fleet Taskforce to create an Australian shipping industry that could operate in the national interest during times of crisis.

“Without decisive action, Australia risks finding itself at the back of the queue in a global crisis, with serious consequences for the economy, national security and everyday Australians,” he said.