01 April 2026
As fuel and energy costs remain elevated, NAB is working with businesses most exposed to fuel price volatility.
NAB says its business bankers have proactively contacted almost 200,000 business customers since early March, focusing on sectors including agriculture, transport, manufacturing, construction and regional supply chains.
While cost pressures remain elevated, NAB says the majority of customers contacted are not seeking financial difficulty assistance.
Australians are also being encouraged to support local businesses, recognising the important role everyday spending decisions play in supporting jobs and local communities.
NAB Business Care Executive Olivia Brosca said diesel costs were a longstanding reality for regional businesses, noting that so far fewer than two per cent of recent calls to the business care team had focused on fuel pressures.
“Australia’s size has long required regional businesses to plan ahead, with long supply chains and self reliance a necessary part of operating outside major centres,” Ms Brosca said.
“Those with well established infrastructure and storage are better placed, but the real pressure is on smaller businesses who haven’t been able to build that buffer.
“Our role isn’t to tell businesses what decisions to make – it’s to understand the cash flow impact and work through practical options together.”
For Victorian based logistics and trucking company Mahonys Transport, higher diesel prices remain a significant cost consideration, but the business has so far been able to navigate the impact.
CEO Jacob Mahony (pictured above) said while Mahonys has been fortunate to manage rising costs, smaller transport operators across freight and agricultural supply chains are under increased pressure.
“Diesel is essential to keeping trucks moving and supply chains functioning,” Mr Mahony said.
“For farmers, transport is critical – if food and fibre can’t move when it needs to, the flow on effects will be devastating.
“Having a banker who understands the transport and agricultural supply chain and can work through options that suit our business helps keep the industry moving when it matters most.”
Ms Brosca said NAB encouraged business customers experiencing pressure from rising fuel or operating costs to engage with their banker early so support could be tailored to their needs.
