New research reveals 9 in 10 Australians are anxious about potential repercussions – particularly fuel supply and price hikes – of the Middle East conflict.

The research conducted 14–15 March by market research and strategic advisory firm Nature with support from Pure Profile found widespread concern amongst the 1,000 survey participants about fuel shortages as well as low confidence in the country’s preparedness for it.

“A staggering 97% are concerned about the reliability of Australia’s fuel supplies, including one-in-three who say they are ‘extremely concerned’,” said Chris Crook, Managing Partner at Nature.

“The majority (80%) of those surveyed don’t expect an end to the instability in the near-future, saying they expect there will be significant fuel shortages in Australia for the next few months.”

Tension building

Nature’s previous pulse survey last month showed that economic pressures and uncertainty were weighing heavily on households. The data collected in February 2026 found that 43% of Australians were reporting heightened levels of stress and anxiety – levels similar to those seen in work conducted in mid-2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We know that Australians were already feeling fatigued and anxious about cost-of-living issues before the latest geopolitical tensions in the Middle East emerged, and this new research suggests concerns about fuel security are now adding to an already strained national mood,” said Dr Crook.

“It’s really clear cost-of-living pressures dominate the national mood today, with three-quarters (76%) Australians reporting feeling concerned – reaching 80% amongst those aged under 45.”

Dr Crook says the survey results and analysis show that the issue is not just economic – it’s emotional – and is impacting people’s confidence, decision-making and future planning.

Behavioural changes

The research is also showing behavioural – as well as attitudinal – changes in response to consumers’ concerns about fuel availability:

• Over half (52%) of survey respondents claim to have already reduced unnecessary driving
• 28% of Australians are considering, or have already begun, storing additional fuel at home.
• 44% stated they have filled up their vehicle earlier than they normally would.

“The research also highlights an emerging shift in attitudes toward electric vehicles, with 40% of all Australian drivers saying they’re now more interested in EVs, and seeing alternative energy transport as a potential buffer against fuel supply disruptions and increased prices,” said Dr Crook.

The findings point to a broader communications challenge for government, industry and brands navigating a climate of heightened public sensitivity.

“As households look for stability and reassurance, the way government, industry and the media communicate about these issues will play a crucial role in shaping public confidence in the weeks and months ahead,” said Dr Crook.