Elise Archer,Minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs
Jen Butler has her head in the sand by completely ignoring the global situation causing fuel price rises, firstly due to the COVID-19 global pandemic and now the tragic events in Ukraine.
The Russian invasion is an absolute tragedy and our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine.
The implications of this are wide-ranging and, unfortunately, there are impacts on the whole world.
Ms Butler should not play politics with this.
Our Government has acted to provide clarity on fuel price information through our Fuel Check TAS app and website. This is delivering a more transparent and competitive retail fuel industry, helping Tasmanian motorists find the cheapest fuel in their area, in real-time.
To date, there is absolutely no evidence that the increase in fuel prices is because of local retailers price gouging – and it is just wrong for Ms Butler to talk down local businesses in this way.
Our Government has made it clear that should further action be required, including the introduction of legislation, we will consider it. However, there is no evidence of local price gouging.
I would suggest Ms Butler educates herself on fuel prices in future, instead of once again embarrassing herself on the floor of Parliament.
