Australia's low fuel reserves concern

The Australian government is facing calls to urgently bolster the nation's strategic fuel stockpile as petrol prices soar above $2 a litre.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is visiting Southeast Asia to shore up supplies of diesel and fertilizer, while Western Australia is considering establishing its own state-funded reserve.

Analysts warn that the current situation highlights a long-standing vulnerability in Australia's energy security framework.

The 'every little bit helps' campaign, aimed at encouraging citizens to conserve fuel, has been criticized by the opposition as 'patronizing' and insufficient to address the systemic risks.