SPEAKER: In terms of the government's support for industry at the moment, obviously Middle East, we're seeing diesel prices go through the roof in areas. What is the government doing to provide fuel security for industry right now?

MINISTER MADELEINE KING: Well right now we've increased supply into the market through the release of the high sulphur content fuels, and that is being directed straight to regional communities. That's the assurance Minister Bowen's got from Ampol, the refiner. At the moment, though, and I want to be really clear, Australia is well stocked with fuel. The 18 ships arrived earlier this year right around the coast to the import terminals, and I think it's over 30 in transit. And that is the normal means by which we supply fuel right around the country. So that remains the case. We expect it to remain the case. And we get fuel from different places. It doesn't all come through the Straits of Hormuz; it's mainly through North Asia. So, that remains our primary supply line. But clearly, as the longer conflicts go on, the harder it gets for the global economy. And that's something we've got a very keen eye on. And every single Minister is talking to their industries and stakeholders about how we can help, and indeed, if help is even needed. Sorry, go on.

SPEAKER: In terms of this particular measure that was announced yesterday, obviously, that's great short-term, but longer term, we're hearing that this conflict could go on for months, potentially. What assurance can you provide beyond, I suppose, this one measure?

MINISTER MADELEINE KING: It's a terrible conflict, and not knowing when it might end, you know, creates uncertainty in the whole community, totally accept that. Everyone gets concerned. They see so many images on the television that it can weigh you down. So, do totally get that. The assurance we as a government give is that we're working every single day to make sure that the Australian community has all the things that they need, and that includes, of course, fuel. So, if we do have a supply, we have the minimum stock holding obligation, which has been met. We still have supplies coming in. Minister Bowen is talking to the industry, I reckon every single day. I talk to the resources sector all the time. Minister Collins speaks to the agriculture sector all the time as well, and we keep on doing that work.

SPEAKER: Can we expect any further measures in the coming days and weeks?

MINISTER MADELEINE KING: If there are further measures. We are monitoring this situation very closely. There are meetings held amongst Ministers all the time to address any problems that come up overnight, to make sure we're on the ball. So, Australia is really well placed to withstand this international shock. But we accept that it could get difficult the more it goes on. And so that's why we are really avidly paying attention to events every single day. And if responses are required, as we have in the past, say, for instance, 2022, when we came into government, and there was a crisis around gas supply and pricing, we would take action. But it will be considered and thoughtful and proportionate to what is required.

SPEAKER: Any further consideration being given to a cut to the fuel excise at this point?

MINISTER MADELEINE KING: Look, we address the issues as they arise, and I know the Treasurer, the Prime Minister, Minister Bowen, myself and all the others will look at all the things we might be able to do. But right now the supply is there. There is more supply going into the market with this latest announcement yesterday. More supply should bring down prices. But I do accept it is a difficult time for Australian consumers.

SPEAKER: Any update on the IEA request yesterday? It was being mulled. Any further consideration?

MINISTER MADELEINE KING: More than just mulled. Very serious consideration. Minister Bowen is looking at that. I've no doubt there'll be a response in quite quickly.

SPEAKER: Thank you very much.