NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water: responding to the fuel crisis
25 March 2026
On Thursday 19 March, the Public Service Association wrote to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water regarding the current fuel crisis.
Regional and remote NSW communities and farmers are disproportionately affected, with fewer fuel outlets decreasing competition and greater daily travel distances at higher speeds leading to higher fuel consumption. Scarcity of fuel is an increasing issue for country and farming communities, leading to higher prices. At the time of writing to the Department examples included $3.29L for Diesel fuel across New England Tablelands and $2.89L on the mid-north coast without taking into account other country regions.
The É«ÀÇÉçÇøhas formally requested the Department allow the current flexible working arrangements to be relaxed for regional staff. This would take significant pressure off the regions fuel supplies also allowing farmers greater access to fuel in remote areas where there is a concern that fuel shortages may lead to food shortages.
The É«ÀÇÉçÇøis waiting for a formal response from the Department.
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É«ÀÇÉçÇøDelegates
Katrina Stankowski (Deputy Secretary) –
É«ÀÇÉçÇøStaff
Michael Sinclair Industrial Officer
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