The world’s top energy body has recommended people work from home if they can, to limit the risk of a fuel crisis.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) made the recommendation last week, in light of the impact of the war in the Middle East on fuel supply.
Australia’s Government has called the idea “sensible,” but has not issued any formal guidance and says a “one-size-fits-all approach” is not necessary.
Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume has likened the proposal to “COVID-like restrictions” and said she would “not support that in any way”.
Context
Earlier this month, Iran closed access to the Strait of Hormuz off its southern border in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes.
The strait usually sees around 20-25% of the world’s supply of oil and liquefied natural gas (used to heat homes and generate electricity) every day.
Before the current conflict, oil was sitting at around $US67 ($AU94) a barrel (159 litres).
As of 23 March (U.S. time), the price of a barrel was around $US98 ($AU140).
Work from home
The IEA is a global body that works with world leaders and the fuel industry to maintain sustainable energy systems and supply.
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On Friday, it released a new report outlining 10 recommendations for governments, businesses, and households to help ease the impacts of what it described as “the largest supply disruption in history”.
Its first recommendation was for people to work from home where possible, to redirect oil use from commuting.
When asked on Saturday about Australia’s likelihood of adopting the measure, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was a suggestion “to the world,” not specifically to Australia.
The Prime Minister also confirmed he would speak to IEA executive director Fatih Birol, who visited Australia on Monday.
Speaking to the ABC on Sunday, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said businesses encouraging working from home was “a sensible thing to do in any environment,” but acknowledged “there are other people for whom it’s not an option.”
Speaking to Sunrise, Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek also described the idea as “sensible,” but reiterated that Australia’s fuel supplies remain stable.
Other parties
Speaking to the ABC on Monday, Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume dismissed the suggestion, saying it would not benefit industries “that are relying on fuel supply.”
She said the focus should remain on addressing disruptions to fuel distribution, otherwise “the economy simply runs to a stop.”
The Greens have called for immediate action on the cost of living, with its Victorian branch urging the State Government to make public transport in Melbourne free for the next month.
