Australia’s Defence Department is expanding the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and other low-carbon liquid fuels across its operations to reduce dependence on conventional fuels and strengthen fuel security, Australian Aviation reported.
The move is part of the 2026 National Defence Strategy, which calls for greater energy security and operational readiness. All Australian Defence Force aviation and land vehicles and equipment have now been certified to use low-carbon fuels, while certification of naval platforms is nearing completion.
Defence said using a wider range of fuel sources would help improve its energy security.
“Supporting domestic renewable fuel production strengthens Australia’s sovereign capability. These demonstrations are an important step toward building a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Defence,” said Director General Fuel Capability Brigadier Mark Baldock.
The Defence Energy Transition Office has been testing and certifying SAF and renewable diesel for use by Defence platforms. Demonstrations have included the Avalon Air Show and Exercise Talisman Sabre.
Policy adviser Commander Steve Cole said the office was now working to complete certification across ADF platforms and ensure the fuels could be used alongside those adopted by partner countries.
“Australia is increasingly looking to be self-sufficient, so the focus at DETO is making sure that Defence is prepared to use these fuels as they become available,” he said.
He said the demonstrations had also helped crews, maintenance teams, planners and decision-makers understand that the fuels could directly replace conventional fuels while meeting the same required specifications.
The development comes as the Australian government prepares to support a domestic low-carbon liquid fuel industry. Earlier this month, the government released two consultation papers linked to its $14.8 billion Fuel Security and Resilience Package, which includes investment in low-carbon liquid fuels.
Transport Minister Catherine King said transport accounts for about three-quarters of Australia’s liquid fuel use and that the country remains heavily dependent on imported fuels.
“We continue to rely on liquid fuels for some time, and I’ve said for a long time, developing a low-carbon liquid fuel industry here in Australia is in our national interest,” King said.
She said the industry could also create opportunities for Australian farmers, noting that the country currently exports about $5 billion worth of feedstock that is processed into low-carbon fuels overseas and then sold back to Australian airlines.
Fuel costs, including jet fuel prices, have risen sharply since the Iran conflict began earlier this year, increasing costs for airlines and passengers and adding to the focus on fuel security.
