- Published:
- Wednesday 6 May 2026 at 9:00 am
Victoria has secured 10 million litres of diesel as a strategic fuel reserve for the agricultural sector.
That means Victorian farmers can be confident that fuel will be available when they need it most.
Victoria has now joined Western Australia as the only states in Australia with a confirmed fuel reserve.
Why it’s needed
Victorian farmers are the backbone of the nation’s food supply.
They produce more than $22 billion in agricultural output annually and feed families around the country and world.
Our farmers have faced prolonged drought – plus global economic uncertainty because of Donald Trump’s war.
This reserve will help them make confident planting and farm management decisions for the winter growing season.
That protects our food security and keep grocery prices down for everyone.
How it works
This reserve does not change day-to-day supply.
It is a contingency so farmers can plan with confidence.
The reserve would only be released if Level 4 of the National Fuel Security Plan is activated.
It complements the Commonwealth’s existing Minimum Stockholding Obligation for fuel companies.
There continues to be sufficient diesel available for Victorians to meet their needs, with supplies arriving in Australia in the required quantities and frequency.
Farmers are central to our regional communities, our food security, and our economy.
Only the Allan Labor Government will make sure Victoria’s farmers can continue to put food on the table.
Quotes attributable to Premier Jacinta Allan
“Our regional communities rely on a strong harvest. That starts with knowing fuel will be there when it’s needed.”
“Backing farmers means backing local jobs and businesses and keeping grocery prices down for everyone.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“This reserve is an insurance policy for our local farmers and the communities they support.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Agriculture Michaela Settle
“We’re protecting supply at critical times and ensuring Victorian farmers can continue to produce world‑class food.”