Business NSW has urged calm and transparency as fuel shortages begin to bite across the regions, warning small businesses are already feeling the impact and will be the first to suffer if supply disruptions and price spikes continue.

Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said members were calling for clear, honest communication from government and fuel retailers about supply levels and emerging shortages, particularly in diesel‑reliant regions.

“What businesses and communities need right now is transparency about fuel levels and supply constraints,” Mr Hunter said.

“Let people know what is available, where shortages are emerging, and how resupply is being prioritised, especially in regional areas.”

Mr Hunter said almost every small business relies on fuel, whether it is delivering goods, getting staff to work or keeping supply chains moving.

“When fuel supply becomes insecure or prices spike, small businesses feel it first and hardest because they have the least capacity to absorb sudden shocks,” he said.

“Members in north-western NSW said diesel has completely run dry, just as regional Australia heads into harvest season and demand increases.

“A regional tourist park operator told us they are starting to see cancellations and hesitation from visitors worried they will not be able to refuel.

“That is lost revenue for regional communities that depend on tourism. It’s important that our holiday plans continue to sustain our visitor economies, particularly in the lead up to the Easter long weekend.”

Looking ahead, Mr Hunter warned fuel instability would drive up inflation and compound cost pressures for businesses in the lead‑up to the next state election.

“We cannot control global energy prices, but governments can reduce the cost of doing business in other ways, including payroll tax relief and targeted support for fuel‑dependent industries,” he said.

“A temporary price cap should also be considered if volatility worsens.”

Mr Hunter said the longer‑term solution was investing in energy and supply chain resilience.

“Our members said this is a wake‑up call. NSW needs stronger fuel storage, better regional freight links, resilient domestic refining capacity, more diverse global suppliers, and continued investment in renewable energy,” he said.

“Energy security is business security.” .

About Business NSW

Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826. We represent almost 50,000 businesses.

MEDIA CONTACT: BEN PIKE – 0429 993 822