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And then also 33 days worth of jet fuel which is two days more than last week’s update, and also of course more than when the crisis began. We have 36 ships on the water, on the way to Australia, and 3.5 billion litres of fuel locked in to be delivered over the next four weeks, which is 300 million litres more than last week’s report. So, the situation remains that despite all the challenges internationally, our fuel security remains very strong.

Government and industry remain very focused and working together for as long as this international crisis continues to ensure that Australians have the fuel they need. And we are very confident that we’re able to do that, and the work will continue. Also in the meantime we've been helping Australians make the choices they want to make to better prepare for the future, and yesterday we saw the release of the figures showing more EVs sold in August than petrol cars for the first time in Australian history.

Now that is Australians taking up the increased choice as a result of the new vehicle efficiency standards. All you've got to do is look on any street in Australia, you see so many more models of EVs available. That's because the new vehicle efficiency standards that were brought into place by the Albanese Government are requiring car companies to send us better, cheaper to run cars for the first time.

We were the only country, major country, outside Russia without these standards. The Albanese Government fixed it, and of course the Liberals, Nationals and One Nation would reverse it. They would rip up the new efficiency standards, which would say those choices removed from Australians.

So we'll keep going with our efforts to ensure fuel security in the short term, and help Australians make the choices they want to make in the longer term when it comes to their own transport. Happy to take questions on those issues and other issues. I think all our questions today are on the phone, so straight to journalists on the phone.

JOURNALIST: Thank you, Minister, it's Amalee from Nine here. Just a question on another issue, there's a story in the SMH today that says your Government will be introducing the digital duty of care next week. Can you confirm that, and then also what’s your message to the Coalition and One Nation who warn it could be government overreach and impede on free speech?

MINISTER BOWEN: Look, I won't confirm decisions to be made in coming days and weeks, but I will say it's very clear we've said publicly that this is on our agenda. And Anika Wells has been working through, very carefully, the options, and she will make, with the Prime Minister, further announcements in due course. But I will say this, we have a problem.

And that problem is very much driven by social media. Now sexual assaults are way up, they're way up for young men. And we have a problem of algorithms driving people to more and more extreme content, and we want to give Australians a chance to deal with that.

Our social media reforms for under-16s are world leading. I mean, double-digit countries have now copied these reforms and they were very controversial when they were introduced. And this is a sort of example of what you can do when you take the time to get policy right, and to give Australians more control over their social media.

Now, the Liberals and Nationals and One Nation have said they're against this before they even see it. Now, they can reach their own view when we put out what we're going to put out and work through it and they can respond. That’s fair enough.

But to say you're against it before you've even seen it, I think is a pretty dramatically disappointing approach on behalf of Coalition of the Liberals, National and One Nation. JOURNALIST: Just on the social media ban, do you think the eSafety Commissioner has enough powers as it is to enforce it? And do you think the powers that it- the extension that's currently in the senate will be enough to do so?

MINISTER BOWEN: Yeah, I think the package before the Senate is an important, one, and in our judgement it gives the eSafety Commissioner the powers she needs. JOURNALIST: MINISTER BOWEN: JOURNALIST: Minister, Tim Lester here from Seven. The surge in purchases of electric cars is a success at many levels.

But some say it’s also dramatically increasing the problem of exposure to security risks from China, that the cars, all of them, represent a risk in terms of listening devices and ultimate Chinese control over the technology. What do you say about that, and what action might there be from the government down the track to protect Australia through that threat?

MINISTER BOWEN: Yeah, let me just say a couple of things Tim. I think Australians can make a choice about what cars they drive, and how they deal with their car. I make that first point.

Second point is that increasingly cars today are connected to the internet. And that is not a matter of what the engine is powered by. I mean, that is the case for petrol cars too, new petrol cars as well.

Basically every new car has an iPad in the middle of the dashboard, and that's connected the internet. And that doesn't really matter what the drivetrain is, whether it's electric, hybrid, or diesel, or petrol, that's the case. And so I think it's important not to conflate the two issues.

Now of course the government will always monitor the situation and take any appropriate steps, but Australians ultimately can make their own- do their own research and make their own choices, and they're making every day. JOURNALIST: One more, if I might, Minister. There are some indications out of South Korea that it might now contribute to some sort of military mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

South Korea is a strong ally of ours, and perhaps an indicator of potential thinking in Australia, or isn’t it? What might we do and what won't we do in terms of helping with the strait if a mission does come into play? MINISTER BOWEN: I think the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister have been crystal clear since this international situation began.

This is not a course of action that Australia was consulted on. It's not a course of action that we intend to be involved in. JOURNALIST: Hi Minister, it's Jack here from the ABC.

There's a new report out today from realestate.com.au that suggests housing affordability is at its lowest rate on record, and it suggests that interest rates are playing a significant role in that. Does the Government hold any concerns that those high-interest rates are pushing first home buyers and prospective buyers out of the market? MINISTER BOWEN: Thanks for the question.

Two things. Firstly, interest rates are a matter for the independent Reserve Bank and no government minister ever comments on what the Reserve Bank should or shouldn't be doing. Secondly, I do think, though, your question underlines a broader problem of housing affordability in Australia, which is why we're acting.

Now, here's the problem. House prices in Australia have gone up 400 per cent, 400 per cent since the year 2000. How are young people meant to get into the housing market if that keeps going?

That's why we're acting. That's why we're making big, controversial changes to the tax treatment of housing to try and give young people in particular, or first-time buyers, but young people in particular, a shot. You can't get a shot if house prices continue to go up by 400 per cent.

So we're making those changes. Now, the Liberals, Nationals and One Nation say everything's fine. Nothing to see here, everything's fine, don't change anything.

We're perfectly happy with a 400 per cent increase and for that to keep going. Well, we have a different view. We think home ownership is, famously, the great Australian dream.

But it's a dream which is out of reach so many young Australians, and that should change. JOURNALIST: And there’s, in recent times, in recent months we've seen a softening in prices. To what extent do you attribute that to the recent changes in the Budget, the tax changes?

MINISTER BOWEN: Look, you're always going to see housing prices move around for a whole bunch of reasons. A whole bunch of reasons. The Treasury modelling shows a reduction in the rate of increase in housing prices as a result of our reforms, but our reforms are just one of the factors that goes into housing prices right across the country at any given time.

JOURNALIST: Minister, this is Nick Newling from the Sydney Morning Herald. We've seen earlier this week Pauline Hanson make claims of incitements of violence against her from the PM. I've spoken this week to a number of MPs who say that violence has spiked against them because of Pauline Hanson's social media accounts.

You're obviously a target of a lot of her ire. Have you yourself noticed increased incidents of violence or threats of violence against you that are directly linked to Pauline Hanson? MINISTER BOWEN: I'm not going to comment about my own personal security arrangements.

The Australian Federal Police has measures in place in relation to those, and they are very active but I don't comment on them. But I will say this, I've seen that commentary from Pauline Hanson this week. Let me remind Pauline Hanson of a couple of things.

Barnaby Joyce stood at a rally in Wollongong and told people to make their ballot papers bullets and to send them my way. This week, Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce were nailing a coffin with the words net zero on it. Is that calm political discussion?

Or is that something which is designed to increase tensions in the community? I'll tell you what it is, it's the latter. So if Pauline Hanson wants to call for the debate to be calmed down, fine, but she can start with it herself.

And she could encourage her followers to engage in respectful debate online and elsewhere. Instead of, you know, you see calls for treason and people to be locked up, all stuff which is not Australian. I can participate in the political debate as robustly as the next guy.

I think people know that. But there's a line, and Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce are regularly across it. And when Barnaby Joyce stands at a rally and says, send your bullets to Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen and other Labor MPs, and then he says, well, I mean ballot papers.

That is not, that is not, calming debate down. So, frankly, Pauline Hanson's complaints have been utterly hypocritical when you look at the sort of rhetoric that One Nation engages in on, not a one-off, not every so often, a daily basis. Any other questions?

JOURNALIST: JOURNALIST: Thank you Minister. MINISTER BOWEN: Okay, thanks very much guys. Good on you.

Thanks for coming out, cheers. (*correction: 43 days of petrol) We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Ms Stott Despoja served as Australia s Ambassador for Women and Girls from 2013 to 2016 and she continues to be a leading international voice for the prevention of sexual violence. The Inquiry responds to Recommendation 25 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which heard extensive, harrowing evidence from serving and ex-serving ADF members of the impact of sexual violence.

Those who wear our uniform might expect to face threats to their safety on the battlefield, but never from those whom they serve alongside. The Inquiry will begin later this year and run for around 12 months, with a final report to be made public. Terms of Reference can be found at: www.dvsc.gov.au/resources/military-sexual-violence-terms-reference As the Military Sexual Violence Inquiry Deputy Commissioner, Ms Stott Despoja will convene and preside over hearings, and engage with a wide range of stakeholders, witnesses and officials.

This includes those with lived and living experiences around military sexual violence. The Inquiry will make recommendations to improve prevention and early intervention, protections for victim-survivors of military sexual violence, ensure perpetrators are held to account and advance a victim-centric approach within the ADF. Consistent with the DVSC’s role as an oversight body, the Inquiry will not investigate or make recommendations about specific cases of sexual violence, current or historical.

Funded through the government’s $5 million Red Centre Marketing Boost The Red Centre Drive Voucher campaign will see $500 vouchers awarded to 600 interstate visitors on a first come, first-served basis. The vouchers can be redeemed with eligible accommodation operators in the Red Centre, including caravan parks, wayside inns, roadhouses and campgrounds. The Red Centre is a must-see destination for travellers from near and far, and this campaign will make sure more Australians are able to travel to the Red Centre, support local businesses, and experience first-hand what makes the region so special.

Interstate visitors can register for the voucher program on Tourism Central Australia’s website from today. Entrants will be assessed on a first come, first served basis and successful applicants will be notified on 5 October 2026. The Red Centre Marketing Boost is part of an $8.5 million investment into the Red Centre, including the $1 million Alice Springs Revival and Resilience grant program, and $2.5 million in grants delivered to local tourism businesses through the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund.

These initiatives are part of the Government’s commitment to regional tourism industry under THRIVE 2030, the national visitor economy strategy. Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell "The Albanese Government is backing regional tourism because we know it delivers real economic benefits, helping local operators grow, creating local jobs and showcasing the very best of Australia." "This campaign will attract more visitors, boost local spending and ensure the benefits of tourism flow directly to businesses and communities across the Red Centre." "Every visitor who stays a little longer, explores a little further, and spends a little more helps strengthen Central Australia's tourism industry and the communities that rely on it." Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Tourism, Nita Green "The Red Centre is one of Australia's most recognisable destinations, and investing in regional tourism helps ensure local communities can continue sharing their unique landscapes, cultures and experiences with visitors from Australia and around the world." "These vouchers will encourage more Australians to take the road less travelled, supporting regional communities and creating lasting memories along the way." Quotes attributable to Marion Scrymgour, Member for Lingiari "There is nowhere else in Australia quite like Central Australia.

From our incredible landscapes to our rich First Nations cultures, there is so much here to experience." "Self-drive tourism brings economic prosperity. When people stay, eat, visit an attraction or buy something locally, that money helps support local businesses and local jobs." "I congratulate the Albanese Government and Tourism Central Australia on this innovative campaign, that will see the local tourism industry grow and allow more visitors to experience and share the very best the Red Centre has to offer."

Lovely to hear you. DAVID MCCARTHY : Lovely to be with you. Really quickly, because we don't have a lot of time.

I know you've got to disappear shortly. You recently attended a meeting with ACON. Tell us briefly what was discussed there.

GED KEARNEY : Oh, yes, we did. Well, the Special Envoy for Men's Health, Dan Repacholi and myself have been travelling around the country having what we call the Healthy Men Community Conversations Project. And this is part, sort of ties in very carefully to the - well, I'm the Minister for the Prevention of Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence, and part of that, of course, is growing healthy young men with respectful attitudes to women and trying to encourage help seeking, trying to counter some of the awful misogynistic online material that we're seeing being targeted to young men and just talking to men and boys about their lives, the influences and how we can help at every stage of life, from young men through to fatherhood, which we know is a significant moment for men right through to an older age.

There's lots of issues that come up from the high rates of suicide, the stress of the family, the drivers of violence, drugs, alcohol. And for young men, sadly, a lot of it is loneliness and isolation. So, we met with ACON and it was actually a really fantastic conversation because they were talking to us about the projects they're doing around healthy masculinities, which is really what Dan and I are talking about.

And they have been doing amazing stuff here. They've been running workshops that have been funded by the Federal Government on healthy masculinities in the context of the LGBTIQA+ world. And they've been running them for all genders, all people who want to explore their own masculinity.

They've been having chats about physical and mental health, about hooking up, about dating. They had a drag king workshop. They have, really, they've been hugely successful and it's something that I hope we can continue doing because it really shows that there is diversity in masculinity and helping break down the rigid stereotypes that people place on men so that, as we know, the patriarchy oppresses us all and really helping men break out of that rigid stereotype that is expected of them that can often lead to harmful behaviours, including, sadly, the use of violence.

So we love ACON. They're doing great work. HOST, PAUL HORWELL : Ged, it sounds really good.

It's Paul. Good morning. It sounds really good that ACON are doing this great work.

I think one of the things that I was interested to read is there are some really simple, practical things like Teach Us Consent workshops where they're actually talking to young men and boys. What does active consent look like and what do healthy relationships look like? Stuff that you would think that the current education system would have as part of the curriculum, but clearly is missing because the manosphere is becoming so toxic.

So, those things that are really good, would we see more of that rolling out? GED KEARNEY : Look, I certainly hope so. The Teach Us Consent, the Respectful Relationships, I should say, curriculum that is in schools right now is being reviewed.

And it's interesting you should bring that up because before we went to ACON, we had a lovely meeting with a group of young men, sort of in their 20s, and there were a number of gay young men in that group. And they were talking to us about what they learned at school and how really it was pretty much based on biology, you know, around sex education. And often the Teach Us Consent curriculum didn't really fit all of the situations that the boys found themselves in, particularly for the gay men in that group.

So, I think, you're probably right. We need to reflect on that and how we present that in schools. It is mandatory now to have that respectful relationships content in schools and just how we can make sure it's relevant to all the young people that go through it.

Of course, the other thing that came up, they said it needs to be whole of school, like it needs to start at the younger stage and go right through, all the way through to the end of school. Really embed it in everything that they do. It's not an easy thing.

Poor old teachers. I feel a bit for our teachers, you know, we ask a lot of them. PAUL HORWELL : They've got a lot on their plate to get through.

DAVID MCCARTHY : And Ged, it's important I want to ask. We know, you know, there are clear links between gambling and family violence. Were you disappointed?

Personally, I know as a, you know, Cabinet solidarity might prevent you, but personally, are you disappointed that the gambling reforms didn't go as far, particularly as far as Peter Murphy, the late Peter Murphy, recommended. Surely this is one way, you know, if we stop gambling advertising and the link between advertising and people gambling and then family violence, this'd be, no pun intended, this could be a really big hit.

GED KEARNEY : Look, there's no doubt that gambling, alcohol, drugs, other forms of addiction exacerbate and, we do see a rise in family violence when they occur. But I will say this about the gambling legislation that did pass the lower house is that is absolutely the most rigorous and strongest reforms we've ever seen to the gambling world. There's no advertising on grounds, no advertising on jerseys.

There is going to be a single opt-out mechanism for people to stop gambling on all of their platforms. Rather than have to go into every, Seven Plus and Kayo and do it all separately. There will be a single one-stop button essentially where you can opt out of all gambling advertising online.

We've really increased the self-reporting. There's a lot. This is, you know, you can't gamble with a credit card anymore.

It's huge. DAVID MCCARTHY : Why not opt in? GED KEARNEY : Really big.

DAVID MCCARTHY : Why not opt in? If you want to see gambling ads, why not say I want to see them? And I mean, you know, I'm particularly virulent about this.

GED KEARNEY : I know you are, Macca. DAVID MCCARTHY : The reality is, Ged, that, you know, as a smoker, I acknowledge there is no safe level of nicotine use. Right.

There is no safe level of gambling advertising. Right. It needs to stop, and it will.

If it does stop, you will see down the track a reduction in family violence and other social ills. We need to take a stand in, I accept this is advanced legislation, it's, you know, it's a good piece of legislation, but it's not good enough. It's not good enough.

GED KEARNEY : I do hear you, Macca, and there are a lot of people who say we've gone too far, believe it or not. But the one good thing that we did get into the legislation that we really pushed for, and a lot of people in the party, are very pleased that we got this through, is that there will be an analysis, be a review of this to see, and that's in three years.

And if in that three years' time we see that, this has had little impact or it's not working or maybe it's going to have a huge impact, we don't know yet. Then there's time again to revisit this. And I think that that was a really important thing to get into the legislation.

DAVID MCCARTHY : I'm rarely as disappointed about decisions of government as I am about this one. GED KEARNEY : Well, I, I think you could be somewhat optimistic, Macca, because these really are big changes. I know some people will say we didn't go all the way.

All right, you and I can agree to disagree on this one. Look, and there's always, you can always do more and it's a bit like the, the opposition are banging on about tobacco, getting rid of the excise on tobacco and da, da, da now. And I think there's absolutely no analysis, for example, to show that that would be better.

So, let's see how this goes. Let's do the analysis and keep banging on about it. Macca.

Don't give up. Keep raising it and keep pushing it. DAVID MCCARTHY : I, I don't intend to.

I, you know, I accept that the legislation ended up going further than originally the Government proposed. The Opposition supported a lot of it. But, you know, we don't need gambling advertising, simple as that.

GED KEARNEY : Okay, I hear you. PAUL HORWELL : Ged, just before we wrap up, we've got Movember coming up. Obviously, mental health and men's suicide is obviously key.

One of the key things, obviously, that the men really struggle with sometimes just getting their emotions out. This campaign about healthy men in community conversations is so important. So, we'd love you to help get Dan Repacholi on Saturday Mag.

I think that conversation needs to be widened. I think a lot of people need to talk about that. GED KEARNEY : Yes, yes, I'll mention it to Dan because we're an interesting team.

He's a young Olympian bloke from the bush, and I'm a 62-year-old grandma from the city but we're a really good tag team. And he talks a lot about the physical side of things, encouraging men to get their prostate tests, their renal tests, to do all those tests. Because men traditionally, as you know, don't seek help.

DAVID MCCARTHY : Yep. GED KEARNEY : Well, much less than women do anyway. And it's really important that you do get a good relationship with your GP and go.

Everyone listening out there, go and get your prostate test. It's a blood test now. DAVID MCCARTHY : Yes, exactly.

GED KEARNEY : It's not a, it's not a rubber glove and a finger anymore. PAUL HORWELL : No. DAVID MCCARTHY : Get it tested.

Because let me tell you, my prostate tried to kill me. It didn't succeed. PAUL HORWELL : Ged, as always, thank you so much for your support for us.

DAVID MCCARTHY : Ged's got to go. PAUL HORWELL : You do a lot of great stuff behind the scenes. Thank you.

GED KEARNEY : I've got a beautiful thing to do right now. PAUL HORWELL : That's all right, we'll talk to you soon. DAVID MCCARTHY : Thank you, Ged.

GED KEARNEY : Thanks a lot, gentlemen. Bye.

This project has transformed the Pye Hill Reserve park into a more welcoming recreational space through landscaping and beautification works, new pathway networks and park furniture, and an inclusive children’s playground. The community celebration featured a plaque unveiling, live entertainment, food trucks and activities for all ages. Block Party program is highlighting ongoing investment from all levels of government in local parks and reserves, encouraging residents to explore local open spaces, connect with their neighbours and enjoy quality community facilities.

Pye Hill Reserve also now includes new and upgraded regional trail connections that enhance the visitor experience, improve accessibility and encourage greater awareness and use of Sydney’s wider trail network. Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP: “It’s fantastic to see the community coming together to celebrate the completed Pye Hill Reserve, with this just one of many projects we’ve partnered with Liverpool City Council on, as part of more than $13.4 million in LRCI funding from the Albanese Government.

“This project is a great example of the Australian Government working in partnership to deliver Australian communities the infrastructure and facilities they deserve.” Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, the Hon Paul Scully MP: “This funding has enabled the transformation of Pye Hill Reserve into a vibrant and welcoming space for the Liverpool community to enjoy.

“This builds on the recent opening of a new almost 8 hectare park in Leppington and is another example of the Minns Labor Government investing in the parks NSW needs to support both current and future generations.” Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley MP: “The Albanese Government has delivered another great project for our state thanks to funding from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

“It was wonderful to see our great community come together to advocate for the Pye Hill Reserve, which will stimulate the local economy through job creation and deliver community benefits for years to come.” Quotes attributable to State Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda MP: “Cecil Hills residents take enormous pride in their community, and when I’m out speaking with locals, I hear loud and clear that they want quality green spaces they can enjoy.

The upgrade at Pye Hill Reserve delivers exactly that. “Over the past year, it’s been great to see Pye Hill Reserve become a well-used part of the local community, with kids enjoying the playground, residents walking their dogs and people using the connections through the reserve to get out and exercise.” Quotes attributable to Mayor of Liverpool, Cr Ned Mannoun: “Pye Hill Reserve is our most recent and extensive park upgrade project and a great example of Council's commitment to creating high-quality public spaces that make Liverpool an even better place to live.

“I am proud we have delivered the modern, inclusive and welcoming green space our residents deserve. I look forward to seeing families connecting, children playing, and residents of all ages enjoying the outdoors.”

Funded through the government’s $5 million Red Centre Marketing Boost The Red Centre Drive Voucher campaign will see $500 vouchers awarded to 600 interstate visitors on a first come, first-served basis. The vouchers can be redeemed with eligible accommodation operators in the Red Centre, including caravan parks, wayside inns, roadhouses and campgrounds. The Red Centre is a must-see destination for travellers from near and far, and this campaign will make sure more Australians are able to travel to the Red Centre, support local businesses, and experience first-hand what makes the region so special.

Interstate visitors can register for the voucher program on Tourism Central Australia’s website from today. Entrants will be assessed on a first come, first served basis and successful applicants will be notified on 5 October 2026. The Red Centre Marketing Boost is part of an $8.5 million investment into the Red Centre, including the $1 million Alice Springs Revival and Resilience grant program, and $2.5 million in grants delivered to local tourism businesses through the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund.

These initiatives are part of the Government’s commitment to regional tourism industry under THRIVE 2030, the national visitor economy strategy. Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell "The Albanese Government is backing regional tourism because we know it delivers real economic benefits, helping local operators grow, creating local jobs and showcasing the very best of Australia." "This campaign will attract more visitors, boost local spending and ensure the benefits of tourism flow directly to businesses and communities across the Red Centre." "Every visitor who stays a little longer, explores a little further, and spends a little more helps strengthen Central Australia's tourism industry and the communities that rely on it." Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Tourism, Nita Green "The Red Centre is one of Australia's most recognisable destinations, and investing in regional tourism helps ensure local communities can continue sharing their unique landscapes, cultures and experiences with visitors from Australia and around the world." "These vouchers will encourage more Australians to take the road less travelled, supporting regional communities and creating lasting memories along the way." Quotes attributable to Marion Scrymgour, Member for Lingiari "There is nowhere else in Australia quite like Central Australia.

From our incredible landscapes to our rich First Nations cultures, there is so much here to experience." "Self-drive tourism brings economic prosperity. When people stay, eat, visit an attraction or buy something locally, that money helps support local businesses and local jobs." "I congratulate the Albanese Government and Tourism Central Australia on this innovative campaign, that will see the local tourism industry grow and allow more visitors to experience and share the very best the Red Centre has to offer."