Australia is considering building its first new large-scale oil refinery in more than 60 years as policymakers seek to reduce vulnerability to overseas fuel supply shocks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the move is prompted by pressures on global fuel availability, including the impact of the war in the Middle East, which has strained supplies coming into Australia. The proposal is framed as a way to strengthen “sovereign” fuel capability and improve resilience if international markets are disrupted.
Reporting indicates the plan would start with an early-stage feasibility assessment rather than immediate construction. The Guardian says Commonwealth and the Western Australian government would jointly fund a $4 million study, potentially assessing construction in Western Australia as part of a broader long-term strategy. Business Line similarly links the reassessment to concerns about shrinking global inventories and supply-chain disruptions, arguing that greater domestic refining capacity could lower exposure to external price and availability swings.
Across the coverage, officials emphasize energy security and long-term capacity planning, with the outcome of the study expected to determine whether a refinery project is pursued.
