What’s happening?
The Coalition, under Peter Dutton’s leadership, has pledged to halve the fuel excise for 12 months if elected. This move aims to deliver immediate cost-of-living relief to residents in outer suburban areas like Redland City.
Why it matters
Fuel prices remain a major pressure point for Redland families, who often lack access to public transport and rely heavily on personal vehicles. The proposed excise cut targets that burden directly, offering much-needed financial relief.
Local Impact
Federal Member for Bowman, Henry Pike MP, confirmed that the policy would return $61.5 million to Redlanders. He said, “Each year, Redlanders pay over $123 million in fuel excise to the federal government. This contributes to cost-of-living pain for locals, yet we do not even see that money invested back into our local Redland roads.”
Mr Pike stressed the importance of recognising the reality of life in outer suburban areas. “We don’t have the same transport options as inner-city suburbs, so we’re unfairly hit at the pump. This represents welcome cost-of-living relief for those Australians living in outer suburbs,” he said.
By the Numbers
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Redlanders pay over $123 million in fuel excise each year.
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The policy would return $61.5 million to locals.
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Families could save over $700 annually—or up to $1,500 for households with two vehicles.
Zoom In
Mr Pike launched a community consultation last year, seeking feedback from residents on fuel prices. The responses painted a bleak picture. “High fuel prices particularly affect our community,” he said. “Redlands already pay $500 annually more for fuel than locals in Brisbane.”
Zoom Out
This initiative forms part of the Coalition’s broader plan to reduce the cost of living, combat inflation, and provide targeted relief for outer metropolitan communities across Australia. “This is a policy designed with Redlanders in mind. It puts money back where it belongs—into the hands of hardworking locals,” Mr Pike added.
What to look for next?
Keep an eye on the Coalition’s broader cost-of-living package rollout and whether the fuel excise cut gains traction leading into the 2025 Federal Election.
