STOCK & LAND | Underwriting deal: federal fuel program to direct supply to farmers in need

Farm leaders have welcomed a new Federal Government fuel underwriting program aimed at boosting supply and directing diesel to regions under pressure, as global disruptions continue to tighten availability.

Stock & Land reported that the plan allows refiners to purchase fuel with reduced commercial risk, with government able to prioritise where supply is sent, including regional Australia.

Grain Producers Australia Chair Barry Large said the move comes at a critical time for growers.

“We’re right at the start of that critical period where we need fuel for sowing, so if this deal sees fuel directed to country regions… that’s a good thing,” he said.

Mr Large said ensuring fuel reaches agriculture is essential to keeping production moving.

“We just cannot get the crop in without diesel,” he said.

He said the focus now will be on ensuring the program delivers in practice, with fuel reaching growers when and where it is needed.

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