Anthony Albanese has defended his national address following fierce backlash.
The Prime Minister said talking directly to the nation was “more important than ever because the nature of noise that is out there, the conspiracy theories that are out there, which propagate, which we can’t do anything about.”
TV presenter Karl Stefanovic was one of those who had slammed Wednesday night’s national address as a “complete waste” – suggesting it may have caused more anxiety.
Stefanovic on Thursday grilled Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles over his boss’ message questioning why it was necessary if not to make a major announcement.
It came after the Western Australian government activated its emergency powers on fuel to force suppliers to divert stock to where it is needed most.
Premier Roger Cook was forced to make the declaration on Wednesday after writing to six companies to ask for sensitive data, such as how much petrol and diesel is left, incoming shipments and delivery timetables, but three of the six did not respond or refused to.
“Let me be very clear, we are not declaring a state of emergency. We are utilising the emergency powers under the Fuel, Energy and Power Resources Act,” he said.
“This is not what people experienced under Covid. It’s a completely different act of Parliament.
“It’s very specific powers which we need in order to create some transparency around fuel supply chains.”
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