Peter Garrett MP
Member for Kingsford Smith
Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Reconciliation and the Arts

“The pain that families are feeling from the soaring price of petrol is reflected in the recent Westpac-Melbourne Institute Index of Consumer Sentiment”, the Federal Member for Kingsford Smith, Peter Garrett, said today.

“When 56% of respondents claim they would have to dip into savings or use credit to pay for their increased fuel bill for the week, then we know we have a serious problem. Across the nation the average price of unleaded petrol has increased by 22% since the start of the year. Unfortunately it seems high petrol prices are here to stay.”

“While the government washes its hands of any responsibility, the Labor Party has put forward a 5 point plan to help lessen the blow to families. This plan includes strengthening the Trade Practices Act, regular checking of petrol prices by the ACCC, modernising the regulatory regime, reducing our reliance on imported oil and encouraging the use of biofuels.”

“The Howard Government’s paltry response to this significant hit on motorists shows a total disregard for working families.”