Fuel security update

MPHN recognises that the current fuel situation may be beginning to impact communities, particularly in regional and remote areas where people rely heavily on travel to access GPs and essential health services.

As you may be aware, the NSW and Australian Governments have announced that Australia has moved to Level 2 of the National Fuel Security Plan. At this stage, there are no fuel restrictions in place, and people are encouraged to continue their usual activities.

However, the region is experiencing tightening fuel supply conditions, with increasing reports of higher prices and localised, intermittent fuel availability. MPHN acknowledges that these conditions have the potential to affect primary care providers’ ability to operate, travel, and maintain supply chains.

We are actively monitoring capacity and workforce pressures, as well as any impacts on service delivery, including disruptions to medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and pathology logistics, and other emerging issues. This information helps us advocate on your behalf, inform government of local conditions, and support a coordinated emergency response.

Please contact MPHN if your service is experiencing any fuel‑related impacts so these issues can be escalated as required. We also ask that you notify MPHN if you become aware of patients cancelling or not attending appointments due to fuel affordability or fuel availability concerns.

Contact:
Email: Peta.anderson@mphn.org.au