Call To Relieve Petrol Price Burden

Opposition Leader, Jodeen Carney, today called on the Chief Minister to take action in respect of the burden of higher petrol prices and the effect this is having on Territorians.

"Fuel prices are hurting Territorians' hip pockets and having a significant impact on family budgets. Ms Martin promised action five years ago when the prices were at $1 per litre, yet at now over $1.50 per litre and after five years in Government there has been no action,” Ms Carney said.

"As an immediate step I call on the Chief Minister to put in place a rebate for motor vehicle LPG conversion of up to $1,000.

If the Federal Government comes good on its proposal of a $1,000 rebate for LPG conversion and the Chief Minister does the same, this will mean only a small residual cost to undertake the conversion.

"By removing most of the biggest impediment, the upfront capital cost of conversion, Territorians can get relief from the higher and higher cost of transport.

"This is action that can be taken immediately. Increased volumes and more people seeking gas for their cars this will see it being even more accessible and cut the cost even further.

With the Territory Government receiving over 20 cents per litre in fuel excise (collect by the Federal Government on behalf of the Territory Government) and GST revenues, they could also take immediate action now and cut 20 cents per litre off fuel costs, but they choose not to.

"This relief may only need to be temporary as other people take up the option of gas conversion or other options as they come forward.

One of the other options that should be explored is that of ethanol blending of fuel, bio diesel and seriously looking at liquefied hydrogen.

"I know my colleague Senator Scullion is working to get Federal Government support for this option in Territory.

"The fact is that higher petrol prices are here to stay and alternatives must be found.

"Ms Martin has typically done nothing other than pass the buck onto the Federal Government. This is not leadership. The Territory Government has a role to play, has a responsibility and Territorians do not want excuses, they want leadership and action,” Ms Carney said.

2006-08-10