Member for Geraldton Kirrilee Warr MLA has questioned the Cook Labor Government over its decision to remove fuel storage in Geraldton amid the overseas conflict.
On Friday, the energy minister confirmed the State Government was seeking areas for fuel storage state-wide, including regional WA.
“Recently, fuel storage facilities near Geraldton Port were removed which may have been capable of taking in the fuel supply the State is looking to distribute amongst the regions,” Ms Warr said.
“Was the State Government aware of the conflict in Iran when they made this decision?
“If it was, how can WA Labor claim to support regional WA during these uncertain times when it makes decisions like this that affect the local storage potential?
“The Minister must guarantee Geraldton and the Mid West will not be left out of the conversation when it comes to fuel distribution.”
Ms Warr said farmers in the region were doing it tough.
“We are still hearing from primary producers and their concerns regarding fuel supply, while little has been done to address shortages in fertiliser, with the uncertainty stifling confidence and compounding business decisions,” she said.
“The Nationals WA believe clear priorities need to be established so that emergency services, freight operators, power generation and primary industries have reliable access to fuel.
“Regional Western Australians deserve clear answers about when diesel supply will return to normal levels, and my office will continue seeking that clarity from the Government.”
Meanwhile, The Nationals WA are calling for a temporary increase to the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme from 40c to $1 per kilometre to assist regional residents looking to access healthcare.
“The current rate is completely out of step with the real cost of fuel and is leaving patients significantly out-of-pocket just to access essential medical care,” Ms Warr said.
“The State Budget will be released next month, but residents can’t afford to wait that long before relief.”
