Australia moves to protect local oil supply | Midday News Bulletin 20 March 2026

Tributes for Indigenous leader and SBS Elder-in-residence, Aunty Rhoda Roberts; Australia pledges support in Strait of Hormuz; and in football, heartbreak for the Matildas as Japan secures its third Asian Cup.

Iran issues fresh threats as the US sends more marines to the region; consumer regulator to allow fuel companies to coordinate on fuel supplies; Australia's elite rowers ramp up preparations for Los Angeles Games.

South Australia goes to the polls; The UK to allow the US to use its airbases to target Iran; and in Rugby League, Brisbane has inflicted another second-half nightmare on the Storm.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong speaks with her US counterpart on the war in the Middle East; Donald Trump calls NATO allies cowards; and in football, the Matildas make final preparations for tonight's AFC Asian Cup final.

In this bulletin, tropical Cyclone Narelle downgraded to a category 3, as major a flood warning is issued for Katherine, the federal government says Australia is providing sufficient support to the Middle East. And in football, FIFA says women's teams in world tournaments must have a female coach.

In this bulletin, fuel security payments to domestic oil refineries to be enhanced, the Prime Minister gets a poor reception at a Sydney Mosque. And in football, FIFA pushes a World Cup for peace in a world ravaged by war.

Communities brace for impact as Tropical Cyclone Narelle bears down on Queensland; Global energy prices surge as energy infrastructure targeted in the Middle East; And in football, record ticket sales for the Matilda's finals clash with Japan.

Cyclone Narelle upgraded to a category five system, Australia's consumer watchdog launches an investigation into the country's major fuel suppliers, The Matildas to face Japan in Saturday’s Women’s Asian Cup final.

National Cabinet appoints a national fuel coordinator to tackle supply issues, The US continues to pressure allies over plans for the Strait of Hormuz, Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo questions Bronson Xerri’s future.

Israel eliminates another senior leader of the Iranian government; The High Court rules against the government's curfew and ankle-monitoring conditions on former immigration detainees; Australia's Winter Paralympic Team returns home.