The Federal Government’s acquisition of an additional 50 million litres of jet fuel for Western Australia will make an important contribution to safeguarding aviation travel, including FIFO flights that are vital to the continued operation of the resources sector.
Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA (CME) Chief Executive Officer Aaron Morey welcomed the announcement, which follows collaboration on fuel supply chains between industry and the Commonwealth.
“The Commonwealth’s decision to direct additional jet fuel shipments to WA recognises the critical importance of maintaining FIFO connectivity to both the State and national economies,” Mr Morey said.
“National stockpiles of jet fuel are smaller than diesel and petrol and so today’s announcement is particularly significant and will make an important contribution to protecting the operating capability of mine sites across the State.
“CME has worked closely with both the WA and Federal Governments on jet fuel supplies, including through the sharing of information about supply and expected demand across industry.”
Mr Morey said it was encouraging to see the Commonwealth prioritising the fuel requirements of Australia’s primary industries, including mining and energy producers.
“The Prime Minister should be commended for recognising the significance of Western Australia’s mineral and LNG exports during the unfolding energy crunch,” Mr Morey said.
“The commodities we sell our Asian trading partners are an important source of jobs, royalties and taxes – but they are also providing the leverage Australia needs to continue acquiring liquid fuels and fertilisers.
“Interrupting the flow of exports like iron ore, LNG and gold wouldn’t just be disastrous for families and government balance sheets, it would also remove the best bargaining chip we have in an increasingly uncertain and unstable world.”
Media contacts:
Josh Zimmerman j.zimmerman@cmewa.com / 0404 947 719
Natasha Mutch n.mutch@cmewa.com / 0435 383 382