The Western Australian community services sector is being asked to contribute vital frontline insights as part of a new survey examining the impacts of the global fuel crisis on service delivery, staff, and vulnerable communities.
Released by the Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS), the survey seeks to capture a real‑time snapshot of how rising fuel costs and supply pressures are affecting not‑for‑profit organisations operating across the State. The initiative is being delivered in collaboration with the Council of Aboriginal Services WA (CASWA), Community Employers WA (CEWA), and National Disability Services WA (NDSWA).
With the fuel crisis placing escalating pressure on already stretched services, WACOSS is calling on community sector organisations to share their experiences to ensure governments have a clear, evidence‑based understanding of the challenges emerging on the ground.
Frontline insight is critical
Community service organisations are uniquely positioned to see the impacts of the fuel crisis as they unfold – from increased operational costs and workforce pressures to growing risks for people who rely on essential services every day.
WACOSS has emphasised that the firsthand knowledge held by the sector is critical to understanding:
- How service delivery is being disrupted or adjusted
- The financial and operational pressures facing organisations
- The flow‑on impacts for staff and volunteers
- Emerging risks for vulnerable individuals, families, and communities across Western Australia
Without robust, sector‑wide data, these impacts risk remaining invisible in policy and funding decisions at a time when rapid and practical responses are urgently needed.
The survey has been designed specifically for not‑for‑profit community service organisations operating in Western Australia. It focuses exclusively on impacts experienced since the start of the fuel crisis on 2 March 2026, ensuring the data reflects the current and evolving situation.
Information gathered through the survey will enable WACOSS and its partners to:
- Identify emerging and escalating risks across the sector
- Build a clear picture of operational and financial stress points
- Provide timely, evidence‑based advice to State and Commonwealth Governments
- Advocate for practical, immediate solutions to stabilise essential services and protect vulnerable communities
The results will play a direct role in shaping policy advice and advocacy efforts, strengthening the sector’s collective voice at a critical moment.
All information collected through the survey will be aggregated and handled confidentially. Individual organisations, workers, and clients will not be identified in any reporting, briefings, or public materials.
The data will be shared between the four partner organisations – WACOSS, CASWA, CEWA, and NDSWA – to support coordinated advocacy, policy development, and sector‑wide planning. Findings will also be used to inform State and Commonwealth Governments, peak bodies, and other relevant stakeholders about the real‑world impacts of the fuel crisis on community services in Western Australia.
Important clarification on urgent fuel supply issues
While the survey is an essential tool for capturing systemic impacts, it is not intended for reporting urgent fuel supply shortages.
Organisations or communities that are experiencing – or are at risk of – running out of fuel are strongly advised to immediately contact the WA Fuel Security State Controller via the dedicated reporting link here. This ensures time‑critical issues are directed to the authorities responsible for coordinating rapid responses and maintaining fuel supply to critical areas.
Eligible organisations can access and complete the survey via the link here. Participation is limited to not‑for‑profit organisations operating in Western Australia.
The survey deadline is Tuesday, 28 April 2026.
As fuel pressures continue to mount, the community services sector’s collective experience is one of its most powerful tools. By sharing their insights, organisations can help ensure decision‑makers fully understand the scale, urgency, and complexity of the challenges facing both services and the people they support.
Participation in the survey represents a critical opportunity for the sector to influence government action and help safeguard essential services during a period of significant uncertainty.