Victoria’s peak farming organisation has welcomed a Federal Government decision to invest $94-million to establish a strategic fuel reserve.

Victorian Farmers Federation Grains Group president Ashley Fraser said the issue was close to the heart of many farmers. 

He said the global virus pandemic had highlighted issues in the agricultural supply chain and fuel security was one of them.

“Fuel is essential to enabling farmers to continue operating their business and supply food to the nation,” he said.

“It is therefore critical that farmers have confidence that they will always have access to a reliable supply of fuel.” 

Mr Fraser urged authorities to move the reserves to Australia as soon as possible.

“It is fundamentally important that farmers have access to a reliable supply of fuel now and into the future, he said.

“That is why we are calling for the inclusion of farmers as essential users of fuel as an amendment to the Liquid Fuel Emergency Act 1984.

“We are pleased with the commitment in this space and look forward to working with the government on the best solution to this problem.”

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