The Victorian Government has secured a 10 million-litre diesel reserve to protect farmers from supply disruptions, with Premier Jacinta Allan saying a reliable fuel supply is critical to sustaining harvests and regional economies.
“Our regional communities rely on a strong harvest. That starts with knowing fuel will be there when it’s needed,” Allan said, as the state moved to strengthen its fuel security.
The reserve ensures Victorian farmers can access diesel during emergencies, giving them greater confidence to plan planting and farm operations, particularly heading into the winter growing season.
Authorities stressed the stockpile is a contingency measure and will not affect day-to-day fuel availability.
Victoria now joins Western Australia as one of the only states with a confirmed fuel reserve, reflecting growing concern about supply chain disruptions and global uncertainty.
Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio described the initiative as a safeguard for rural communities.
“This reserve is an insurance policy for our local farmers and the communities they support,” she said.
Victorian agriculture generates more than $22 billion annually, underpinning both domestic food supply and exports. The government said recent challenges — including prolonged drought and global economic volatility — have highlighted the need for stronger resilience measures.
Agriculture Minister Michaela Settle said the reserve would help farmers maintain production during critical periods.
“We’re protecting supply at critical times and ensuring Victorian farmers can continue to produce world-class food,” she said.
The diesel stockpile would only be released under extreme circumstances, specifically if Level 4 of the national fuel emergency framework is triggered. It complements existing federal requirements that mandate minimum fuel stockholdings by suppliers.
Allan said supporting farmers was essential not only for regional jobs but also for keeping grocery prices stable.
“Backing farmers means backing local jobs and businesses and keeping grocery prices down for everyone,” she said.
Officials emphasised that current diesel supplies remain stable, with regular shipments meeting demand, while the new reserve adds an extra layer of protection against future disruptions.
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