Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Easter message to Australians has sparked widespread outrage for completely overlooking the ongoing fuel crisis gripping the nation.
Focus on Faith Amid Fuel Shortages
Albanese emphasized family, faith, and the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ in his Friday post. “For Christians, Easter is a time to reflect on the meaning of their faith,” he wrote. “The celebrations and services held across our country will remind us of the values of love and forgiveness at the heart of the Easter story, values which strengthen and enrich our families, our communities and our society beyond measure.”
He encouraged Australians to enjoy joy, generosity, and togetherness, suggesting time with family, egg hunts, and safe road travel. “If you do have the chance to take a break from work this weekend, take it safe on the road and relish the chance to relax and recharge,” Albanese added. In another post, he noted: “If you’re working this Easter weekend, you deserve your penalty rates.”
This message follows his recent national address urging citizens to “enjoy your Easter” but fill up “like you normally would.”
Ongoing Fuel Crisis Disrupts Easter Plans
Thousands of Australians canceled Easter holidays due to fuel shortages, with 410 service stations out of diesel and 145 lacking unleaded petrol as of Friday. Despite a three-month fuel excise cut, prices remain elevated in some regions as stations offload pricier stockpiles.
Public Backlash and Calls for Resignation
Many criticized the message as tone-deaf. A small business owner fumed: “Enjoy your day off Albo. I’ve been working in my small business all day trying to work out how to pass all these supplier fuel levies on to my customers without losing them. Happy Easter!”
Another remarked: “Take a break from work? With fuel prices and the cost of living the way they are?! Hold my beer.” A third shared: “Can’t afford the fuel to go visit family like I had planned, thanks Albo.”
Critics highlighted the absence of nods to Christianity’s role in Australia, especially near Anzac Day: “No mention of the millions of Christians who built and shaped our country, the important contributions they have made to modern Australia. And being close to Anzac Day, the Christian men and women who gave their lives so we might live in peace.”
Some questioned the text-only format, contrasting it with past video posts or photo ops, including for other holidays. One wrote: “No photo or video post for the most sacred day on the Christian calendar. Even the Assyrian New Year came with a photo op.” Another added: “No video opportunity at a church today? Just a letter to the people you hate.”
Not all feedback was negative. Supporters praised it: “This is what leadership looks like. Thank you, Prime Minister.” Another stated: “No issue with his message. If he didn’t speak, you’d criticise, when he does speak, you criticise.”
