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The Queensland Government’s Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program aims to boost local refining and storage capacity, with regional communities like Hinchinbrook expected to benefit from stronger long-term fuel security. Photo source: David Crisafulli MP
In the Hinchinbrook Shire, fuel security is back in focus as the Queensland Government rolls out new measures aimed at strengthening supply and reducing reliance on global markets. Expressions of interest have opened under the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry to develop refining and storage projects on government-owned land at key ports across the state.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the issue remains a growing concern locally, with residents already feeling the effects of rising costs and supply uncertainty. In response, Council has introduced real-time fuel updates through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard, helping residents plan ahead and reduce pressure on local supply while broader state initiatives take shape.
“It’s so important to make fuel availability information easier to access, so people can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary trips between service stations.”
Just last week, the government announced it is actively working to strengthen Queensland’s fuel security through a plan to expand local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additionalinfrastructure at ports across the state.
On Saturday, 2 May, expressions of interest opened, inviting industry to submit proposals for fuel refining and/or storage on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane, under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program.
The Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program was developed as a joint initiative between the Office of the Coordinator-General and Economic Development Queensland and includes a statewide audit of government-owned industrial and port land suitable for new refineries or fuel storage facilities (already underway), targeted market engagement to attract industry proposals (now open), and streamlined approval and delivery processes for projects on these sites.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, who has regularly spoken on the importance of fuel security in the region, said the issue remains a key concern for regional and remote communities, noting that a program like the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program comes at a critical time.
“Fuel has been a regular topic around our dinner tables and workplaces for weeks now, and I know many locals are feeling concerned about availability and rising costs,” he said.
“We understand how important fuel is to everyday life in Hinchinbrook. Whether you’re commuting to work, running a business, taking kids to school, or travelling long distances to access services,” Mayor Jayo said.
“For us, fuel isn’t a luxury.”
“While Australia has fuel security measures in place, regional and remote communities like ours can still feel the impact of international instability through transport delays, increased demand and temporary supply pressures.”
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is encouraging residents to stay informed and plan ahead as global pressures continue to impact fuel supply, with new tools now available to help the community navigate potential disruptions. In response, fuel availability information has been made more accessible through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard, providing near real-time updates sourced directly from the Queensland Government.
The dashboard allows users to view participating fuel retailers, check availability and monitor local supply trends, helping residents make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary travel between service stations.
“It’s so important to make fuel availability information easier to access, so people can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary trips,” Mayor Jayo said.
“When people can see where fuel is available, it helps everyone — it reduces panic buying, supports fair access, and helps ensure essential services and vulnerable community members aren’t left without fuel.”
Council is also encouraging residents to use fuel responsibly and remain mindful of others during periods of supply pressure.
“A little consideration goes a long way,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Using fuel responsibly helps ensure there’s enough for emergency services, essential workers, local businesses and those who rely on fuel the most.”
Under the Queensland Fuel Security Plan, alongside the rollout of the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, the Queensland Government has introduced a series of broader measures in recent weeks. On 22 April, a $25 million investment in renewable diesel production at Ampol’s Lytton refinery was announced, aimed at delivering Australia’s first sustainable domestic production of second-generation low-carbon liquid fuels, with initial output targeted from 2028.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Queensland Government aims to deliver both security and opportunity, ensuring the state is better protected from reliance on global supply chains in the future.
“More storage and refining fuel locally means it’s easier for families to fill up, and small businesses to stay afloat amidst rising national cost pressures,” he said.
“We have a plan across the short, medium and long-term to get projects moving to produce oil, refine it and store fuel locally, as well as deliver relief and fight for Queenslanders receiving the most accurate information available.”
Collectively, the initiatives reflect a broader effort to strengthen fuel security and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions, particularly for regional communities like the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Residents can access the dashboard via the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Facebook page or the Disaster Dashboard website, https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au, alongside updates on weather warnings, road conditions and community safety information.
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