30 March 2026

Australia Fuel Update – Market Conditions (March 2026)

We continue to monitor and interact with authorities to ensure we can provide our customers with the most up to date information and insight into the current fuel market across Australia. Please find below a summary of information received, including details of petrol and diesel stock.
 

20 March 2026 – Market update on Australia Fuel Security. 

• Along with the guidance from the International Energy Agency (IEA), Australian government confirmed the release of 20 percent of the baseline Minimum Stockholding.  Releasing up to 762 million litres of petrol and diesel from Australia’s domestic reserves.
• The Government has introduced a 6-month adjustment which will reduce the diesel supplier standards by dropping the flashpoint from 61.5 to 60.5 degrees Celsius, while having no impact on engines or emissions, this will allow an additional 100 million litres to be released into the market.
• The government is requesting from the public that there is no need to change how you purchase fuel. Sticking to your usual habits helps keep the system running smoothly for everyone.  The stockpiling and hoarding of fuel is creating an unnecessary panic.
• The latest update (Australia's fuel security - DCCEEW) also highlights a range of short and long-term measures to support our domestic fuel security, improve fuel quality and protect consumers and our economy from supply disruptions.

Fuel stocks update

Latest Statements by Chris Bowen on Australia’s Fuel Stocks (March 2026)

 “Minimum stockholding requirements are being met, and reserves remain strong.”   Bowen confirmed that fuel companies are still meeting the legally required 32 days of diesel stock, and that total fuel stocks are as high as before the crisis began, despite surging demand. 

 “No need to panic — Australia’s fuel supply remains secure.” Bowen has repeatedly stated that Australia is not running out of fuel, and that every expected shipment of diesel, petrol and jet fuel has been arriving on schedule. He emphasized that current shortages are due to panic buying, not a lack of supply. More information can be found here.
 

Mainfreight update 

For Mainfreight, we continue to maintain a two source supply strategy, with both BP and Shell fuelling programs available for our drivers and linehaul partners. Both suppliers have reported no concerns regarding short or long term supply, aside from the isolated stockpiling affecting some retail service stations.

Whilst receiving updates from industry bodies is important, there are also various proactive ways customers can better manage their freight movements, and at times reduce the impact of rising fuel costs. We are already working with customers who are using these solutions and have provided below a range of strategies being used.  
 

Review order and pallet minimums

Setting or adjusting minimum order requirements for customers can improve freight efficiency and reduce costly small shipments, without affecting service levels.
 

Lead time management

Allowing more lead time enables the use of alternative transport options. Mainfreight offers consolidated rail, coastal, air and sea solutions that can reduce cost per shipment if not already in use.
 

Consolidation

Reduce and limit shipment and consignment frequency through order consolidation. This will likely increase consignment size, which will in turn provide overall cost benefits.
 

Alternative discharge ports for internationally sourced products

Where feasible, position internationally sourced products near your customer base. Leveraging our domestic infrastructure, we facilitate the delivery of imported goods through our cross docks directly to multiple end destinations. This approach enhances cost efficiency and can improve delivery times to final customers.
 

Connect

Periods of volatility highlight the importance of collaboration. Reviewing shipment profiles, order structures, and delivery requirements with us can uncover opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce overall cost exposure.