Australians Cancel Easter Travel Amid Fuel Crisis

As Australia approaches the Easter holiday, a significant fuel crisis has emerged, prompting many Australians to cancel their travel plans. The crisis is attributed to localised fuel shortages exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which began on February 28, 2026, and has disrupted global energy supplies. Energy Minister Chris Bowen has urged citizens to limit their fuel purchases to essential needs, stating, “Easter is a very special time of faith and family,” while encouraging people to stick to their plans but to “get no more fuel than you need.”

The Easter long weekend is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods in Australia, with over 4.5 million expected travelers in 2025. However, this year, many have opted to stay home due to soaring fuel prices and concerns over fuel availability. Reports indicate that diesel prices have exceeded AUD 3 per litre, while petrol has surpassed AUD 2.50. The government has responded by cutting fuel taxes to alleviate some of the financial pressure on consumers.

Sydney resident Ucak, 66, expressed her decision to cancel a long trip to the countryside, stating, “It’s expensive. Also we’ve got to think about it – working people need their petrol, [but] we’re retired, we can stay at home.” Similarly, Rachel Abbott, a 27-year-old art director, cited high travel costs as a reason for her decision to remain in Sydney, noting that both driving and flight prices were prohibitive.

The conflict in the Middle East, particularly the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, has had a direct impact on Australia's fuel supply, which relies on imports for approximately 90% of its needs. Bowen reported that 312 out of around 8,000 service stations were without diesel, primarily affecting rural areas where replenishment takes longer. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that the economic repercussions of the conflict would be felt for months, urging citizens to consider public transport options.

While some Australians have adjusted their holiday plans, others have expressed deeper concerns about the broader implications of the conflict. Aid worker Stav Zotalis, 59, remarked that this Easter feels “very different” due to the ongoing turmoil, reflecting a sense of uncertainty and unpredictability. She emphasized her worries for those in conflict zones who are facing severe hardships, stating, “I know people that live closer to the conflict are having to forgo food.”

• “Easter is a very special time of faith and family,” — Chris Bowen, Energy Minister

• “[It’s] six or seven hours drive to the countryside…it’s expensive. Also we’ve got to think about it – working people need their petrol, [but] we’re retired, we can stay at home.” — Ucak, 66

• “Work’s just been quite busy and flights are very expensive, and then if I were to drive, obviously it would be a lot more expensive,” — Rachel Abbott, 27

• “does feel very different” — Stav Zotalis, 59

The combination of rising fuel prices and the ongoing conflict has led to a significant shift in travel behavior among Australians, highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and local economic conditions.