Truckies warn businesses are folding as Canberra refuses to revive diesel excise cut
Why it matters: It's the sharpest sign yet that diesel prices are hitting real trucking businesses, not just headline pump numbers, and it puts the federal government at odds with an industry demanding the old excise relief back.
Trucking bosses say diesel at $2.86 a litre is tipping small operators under, and they want Canberra to bring back the fuel excise cut it dropped once the US-Iran war eased. All Purpose Transport chief Paul Kahlert, whose business employs more than 400 people, says younger generations are watching their parents struggle and wondering if the business is worth inheriting. Queensland Trucking Association boss Gary Mahon says multi-generation firms are being sold off as members run out of road financing the fuel hikes. Energy Minister Chris Bowen isn't shifting, saying the earlier 32 cent a litre relief was always meant to be temporary. Finance Minister Katy Gallagher says the government's focus has moved to permanent, tax-based relief instead.
Source: AAP wire via The New Daily · 25-26 September 2026