Labor has refused to call out activist group Rising Tide blocking fuel and mining supplies, amid revelations they are potentially being funded by taxpayers.
Senate Estimates heard despite a fuel and cost-of-living crisis, a major issue right now is that crucial mining output and resources are sitting in storage or stuck at ports.
But less than two weeks ago, activist group Rising Tide stormed Newcastle Harbour, preventing two coal ships from docking at the city’s port.
Estimates also heard Conservation Council ACT, which is listed as a ‘charity’ group, meaning taxpayers help fund it, also supports Rising Tide.
This also means taxpayers could be unknowingly supporting illegal activity, such as the blockage in Newcastle.
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said Labor needed to not only stop activists from blocking supplies, but ensure taxpayers weren’t funding the activity.
“It is unbelievable that this is occurring during a fuel crisis and an economic downturn,” Senator Canavan said.
“These activists are not only putting their lives at risk, but hurting all Australians.”
It comes as ABS figures show the trade surplus fell from $1 billion in December 2025 to a deficit of $2.4 billion in the March quarter of 2026, due to a fall in mining exports.
Budget projections also show projected investment in resources down to zero per cent.
Shadow Minister for Resources Susan McDonald said the Government cannot claim responsibility for Australia’s economy while denying responsibility for safeguarding the infrastructure that keeps it moving.
“If the Federal Government doesn’t think protecting Australia’s trade ports is its responsibility, then whose responsibility is it?” Senator McDonald said.
“Our ports are the gateways for fuel, food, fertiliser, machinery and countless other essential goods. When they are disrupted, regional communities, businesses and families pay the price.
“Australians expect governments to defend critical national infrastructure. They do not expect governments to stand by while activists jeopardise supply chains and economic security.”
Warnings have already been issued that disruptions to fuel supplies can have serious consequences for freight networks, agriculture, manufacturing and everyday consumers.
“Peaceful protest is a democratic right, but deliberately targeting critical infrastructure and disrupting the movement of essential goods is another matter entirely.”
