Call for Immediate Action on Domestic Production
Family First has called for urgent action to make Australia fuel self-sufficient, urging the government to increase domestic oil and gas production. The statement was made on 17th April 2026 by the party’s National Director and NSW Legislative Council candidate, Lyle Shelton.
Restoring Domestic Refining Capacity
Shelton emphasised the need to restore Australia’s domestic refining capacity and reduce reliance on overseas fuel supplies amid global instability. He criticised the failure of both major political parties in ensuring fuel security.
“Australia should never be in a position where our economy, our farmers and our families are dependent on foreign nations for something as critical as liquid fuel,” said Mr Shelton. He called for a coordinated national effort to unlock reserves such as Queensland’s Taroom Trough.
On April 17, 2026, Shelton expressed concern over the long-running stigmatisation of fossil fuels by political groups such as Labor, the Greens, and the Teals. He stated, “This ideological hostility to oil and gas must stop. These resources are not the problem; they are the solution to keeping Australia moving and our economy strong.”
The Family First leader highlighted the importance of starting immediate drilling and refining operations to prepare for future crises. According to Shelton, “If we begin drilling, refining and storing our own fuel today, we will be far better prepared for the next global shock.”
He argued that with the right leadership, Australia can become completely self-sufficient in oil and gas. “With the right leadership, Australia has the resources to be completely self-sufficient in oil and gas,” he stated, advocating for immediate drilling, refining, and storage initiatives.
Shelton underscored the importance of starting now to ensure preparedness for future global disruptions. He stressed that fuel security must be a national priority, impacting national security, economic stability, and the cost of living.
According to Shelton, restoring sovereign capability in the energy sector is crucial. “Sovereign fuel capability must be restored as a matter of urgency,” he concluded.
Family First believes the first responsibility of government is to put Australia first. This involves restoring sovereign capability in critical industries like energy to ensure the nation never faces fuel shortages again.
