Rising diesel prices are worrying Australian farmers ahead of harvesting

In central Queensland, the harvesting campaign has already started, and in the coming weeks, harvesting will begin across the entire country. According to farmers, current fuel costs are twice as high as a year ago, which causes disappointment after an expensive sowing season. At the same time, high grain yields are expected in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.

Simon Barbary, a farmer from the Victorian Mallee, notes that due to the heavy harvest, machinery will work more intensively, and the number of truck trips to the grain elevator will increase. As a result, farms will need 10–20% more fuel. Barbary plans to increase fuel reserves on the farm, whose storage capacity allows for about 15,000 liters, although the situation depends on prices and potential disruptions in global supplies.

The transport sector is also experiencing difficulties due to the surge in diesel prices, which puts many businesses on the verge of survival. Melbourne semi-trailer and road train fleet owner Mr. Russo pointed out additional expenses, including road repairs, operational costs, registration, and toll fees. He warned that in the absence of assistance, these costs will fall on the shoulders of consumers.

Fuel supplies to Australia continue, and there is currently no shortage, but trade flows remain under observation. Commodity analyst Andrew Whitlow described the fuel situation as precarious against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran, noting a reduction in global stocks.