AgForce has expressed concerns about the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on global fuel and fertiliser supply, with disruptions already affecting farmers' access to the critical inputs needed to keep farm operations running.
While fuel imports into Australia are continuing at this stage, panic buying is placing pressure on local supply, with some fuel stations already running dry. Independent suppliers are facing tighter supplies, and in some cases regional fuel stations have either run out of fuel or introduced restrictions, while some distributors are cancelling farmers' orders.
AgForce Grains President, Brendan Taylor, said producers were facing these fuel distribution challenges at a critical time in the farming calendar.
"With farmers across the state either harvesting summer crops, or preparing for winter planting, we're in a period of high demand for fuel and fertiliser," said Mr Taylor.
"Fertiliser is a vital part of putting food on the table for everyday Australians. Without it, crops either aren't planted or yields are significantly reduced, which ultimately means less food reaching supermarket shelves."
AgForce General President, Shane McCarthy, said the situation highlighted how quickly Australia's fuel supplies could come under pressure.
"It is stunning how fast fuel security has become an issue, especially in regions where the food and fibre for the nation is grown," said Mr McCarthy.
"If the tractors and the trucks stop running, the shelves at the supermarket will be empty. There will also be animal welfare concerns, as trucks carrying livestock won't be able to get to their destination without fuel."
Mr McCarthy said the agriculture industry had long raised concerns about Australia's reliance on imported agricultural inputs.
"Farmers and representative organisations like AgForce have been warning for some time that Australia's reliance on imported fuel and fertiliser leaves us vulnerable," he said.
"If we run short of fuel or fertiliser, it has serious implications not just for farmers but for Australia's food supply."
"This situation highlights the importance of strengthening Australia's fuel reserves and reconsidering domestic manufacturing capacity to support our long-term food security."
Mr McCarthy said AgForce had been raising farmers' concerns with the National Farmers' Federation and government representatives to ensure agriculture has reliable access to diesel and other critical inputs.
AgForce encourages any farmers facing fuel and fertiliser shortages to get in contact so we can work with authorities and the National Farmers' Federation to address issues as they arise.
