Chalmers Rejects Wilson Claim on Fuel Excise

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has pushed back against claims made by Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson about the federal government’s fuel excise revenue.

Chalmers’ office circulated a fact check after Wilson suggested the government would receive more money through fuel excise as petrol prices increase.

Chalmers described the statement as a “clanger,” noting that Australia’s fuel excise is not linked to fuel prices.

Under the current system, the excise is a fixed charge applied to each litre of petrol sold. The rate is currently 52.6 cents per litre and is adjusted twice a year in line with inflation.

This means government revenue from the excise increases only if the total volume of fuel sold rises, rather than when the retail price of petrol increases.

Wilson had earlier raised the issue of fuel tax while discussing rising petrol prices but declined to say whether the Coalition would support cutting the excise.

He said reducing the fuel tax could be considered by the government if petrol prices continue to rise.

The exchange comes amid broader political debate over fuel costs and cost-of-living pressures.