Australia will temporarily relax petrol fuel standards and inject about 100 million litres of petrol per month for 60 days to avert shortages as oil prices rise and Middle East tensions spill into global markets.

Energy Minister reveals Ampol will redirect supply to regions facing shortages and into the wholesale market to boost domestic availability.

During the period, higher sulfur levels will be allowed, contributing roughly 100 million extra litres per month to domestic gasoline that would otherwise be exported.

The government stresses fuel stocks remain strong and urges the public to avoid panic buying despite elevated demand tied to global tensions.

Officials emphasize prioritizing support for farmers, fishers, and regional communities as part of the response.

Analysts warn of ongoing inflationary pressure from energy costs, with expectations of higher interest rates and potential price spikes if the conflict persists.

New South Wales leaders convened an emergency cross-agency meeting to secure supplies for hospitals and emergency services while warning against panic buying.

Opposition demands guarantees there will be no fuel shortages and calls for additional levers to be activated if needed.

The plan prioritizes extra petrol to non-urban areas, with officials noting no immediate need for emergency powers to ensure hospital continuity but keeping preparations in place.

New Zealand is weighing old laws to curb vehicle use if shortages worsen, including ideas like no-car days and fuel-use coupons, amid rising costs and imports reliance.

The government is defining its voluntary contribution to international energy-sharing efforts and considering its role in the IEA coordination.

The price surge is linked to broader conflict dynamics, with regional diesel costs rising by up to 70 cents per litre since the late February escalation.