The current conflict in the Middle East isn’t just a geopolitical disaster. It’s also having a significant impact on the availability and price of fuel for many Aussie businesses.
In an attempt to support two of the most badly affected industries – manufacturing and logistics – the Australian Government has introduced financial support measures in the recent Federal Budget. This includes interest-free loans for companies in these affected industries.
What loans are being offered?
To keep trucks, trains and planes moving and critical production online, the Government is helping manufacturing and logistics businesses manage cashflow pressures with interest‑free loans from the National Reconstruction Fund’s (NRF) $1 billion Economic Resilience Program.
Who can apply for an interest-free loan?
The financial support that’s available through the Economic Resilience Program is designed to ‘assist logistics and manufacturing businesses in areas such as freight, fuel, plastics and fertiliser who are materially impacted by market disruptions related to current conflicts and global price rises for key inputs.’
Applications for loans through the program opened on April 20, 2026
There are two parts to the program:
- Zero-interest loans administered directly by a participating bank for companies who are seeking a loan of up to $5 million.
- Zero-interest loans administered by the NRFC for companies who are seeking a loan of more than $5 million.
Talk to us about how to overcome business issues
If rising fuel prices are affecting your margins and your ability to operate, come and talk to our team. We’ll help you rework your financial strategy to factor in the available support.
