Fuel Crisis – Council Services and Financial Impacts

Published on 01 April 2026

Council is currently working closely with its service contractors, neighbouring councils and industry partners to understand and manage the impacts of the current fuel crisis on Council operations and services.

At this stage, Council does not expect any immediate impacts to kerbside waste collection or other essential services. Council’s waste service contracts include conditions regarding cost adjustments, and Council officers are currently working with contractors and legal advisors to assess any requests for contract variations in accordance with contract conditions.

Council is monitoring the situation closely to look at costs and minimise any potential service disruptions.

While there are no immediate service impacts anticipated, Council expects the ongoing fuel shortage and price increases to place broader financial pressure on operations. This may include increased costs for Council’s own fleet and plant fuel consumption, increased costs for road and construction contracts, and added pressure on the delivery of capital works programs within existing budgets.

The fuel crisis is also expected to contribute to broader inflationary pressures across the local government sector and will continue to impact Council, contractors, the workforce and the wider community through increased cost of living pressures.

In relation to funding impacts, Council has not considered any special levy in response to the fuel crisis. This will be reviewed further as Council works through its annual budget process.

“Council understands the concern and challenges this situation may bring for local businesses, families and the wider community. As the impacts continue to unfold, Council will meet each stage with an adaptive approach, maintaining a steady focus on our community’s needs.” – Mayor Cr Karen Stephens