National Fuel Security Plan

The Australian Government has launched a new website and campaign to help keep Australians informed about what it’s doing to secure fuel. The website has information on the National Fuel Security Plan, endorsed by National Cabinet, tips for drivers and information on actions to date.

We are now on Level 2: Keeping Australia Moving, which is focused on voluntary choices to only use the fuel we need.

Read the National Fuel Security Plan

How to prepare

The PHN is here to support your practice to prepare, and respond if fuel shortages have a greater impact in future. If the national response level changes, the PHN will issue further disaster preparedness guidance. Some actions to consider on Level 2 include:

• Stay up to date:
  • Check fuelplan.gov.au for the latest government advice and update practice information accordingly.
  • Confirm your practice is registered for the halved fuel excise benefit (32c/L reduction from 1 April 2026). Check with your accountant or ATO fuel response team if unsure. 
  • Assess whether regional supply disruptions are affecting your area — contact your fuel supplier directly. Report any shortages to your PHN.
  • Subscribe to PHN Emergency Alerts. This will only be used for genuine emergency situations.
• Digital health options:
  • Audit current telehealth capability and confirm your video platform is set up and working. 
  • Update on-hold phone message, website and social media to inform patients of telehealth options. 
  • Identify appointment types suitable for telehealth: results, repeat scripts, referrals, follow-ups, mental health reviews. 
  • Update/ensure your booking system clearly offers telehealth options and train reception staff on bookings and patient preparation.
  • Set up electronic prescribing (eScripts), if not already active.
• Patient communication:
  • Communicate telehealth availability on your practice website, phone message, social media and waiting room signage.

  • Ensure all patient communications are accessible to multicultural, elderly and patients with low literacy. 

Escalation

If you experience any of the following issues please reach out to practicesupport@ddwmphn.com.au. 

• Noticeable volumes of patients are unable to attend face-to-face consultations due to fuel cost or availability.
• Fuel deliveries to your area have stopped or are significantly delayed.
• A significant proportion of your clinical staff cannot get to work due to fuel shortages.
• You are unable to maintain home visit services for patients with no alternative care options.
• Your medical supply deliveries are being disrupted.
• A high volume of patients are presenting with fuel or cost-related mental health crisis.
• Your practice is considering closure or reduced hours due to the crisis.
• You need urgent support to maintain service delivery.