WA Government Activates State of Emergency Amid Escalating Fuel Crisis

State of Emergency Declared for Western Australia

Premier Roger Cook has officially activated a State of Emergency across Western Australia today, Thursday, 2 April 2026, as the state grapples with a deepening fuel shortage triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East. The emergency measures come after the state government determined that voluntary cooperation from fuel suppliers was insufficient to manage the volatility currently impacting the market.

The declaration provides Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson and the state government with extraordinary powers to force fuel companies to disclose commercially sensitive data regarding their supply chains. More importantly, it allows the government to mandate the diversion of fuel stocks to high-priority regions and essential services. This move is aimed at ensuring that emergency responders, public transport, and remote regional communities—which have seen mass cancellations of services—remain functional during the current shortage.

National Press Club Address and Federal Response

On the national stage, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to address the National Press Club today to discuss the federal government’s response to the regional instability and the resulting energy crunch. The Prime Minister’s address is expected to focus on long-term national fuel security and the implementation of a four-stage plan to avoid national fuel mandates. While the Prime Minister has urged Australians to save fuel where possible, the Western Australian government has acted more decisively due to the state's unique reliance on long-distance logistics and regional industry.

Perth residents are being advised that while the emergency powers are now active, they do not currently include rationing for individual consumers at the pump. However, the Premier has warned that the government will monitor price gouging and supply levels closely throughout the day to determine if further restrictions are necessary.

Holiday Road Safety and Double Demerits

The activation of the State of Emergency coincides with the final government briefings ahead of the Easter long weekend. Road Safety Minister David Michael and the WA Police Force have issued a final reminder today that double demerits will commence at 12:01 am on Friday, 3 April. The "Caught in a Flash" campaign, which was highlighted in recent press sessions, will be in full effect, targeting speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt offences.

The government’s primary focus today remains the logistical challenge of maintaining fuel flow for holiday travelers while ensuring that the newly activated emergency powers are utilized to stabilize the state's energy reserves. Ministers are expected to remain in constant contact with the State Emergency Coordination Group throughout the day.