Apparently Dick Smith, another Aussie, had similar problems getting fuel some years back when he went in by helicopter. The Yanks refused to sell him any, the Russians obliged.
I gather that the Aussie politicians are now talking to the Kiwi politicians about getting Jon some fuel - you can imagine the delight that will cause the Kiwi's - having an Aussie grovel to them...
Probably the Yanks are being holier than thou in refusing fuel (how dare anyone soil our lovely Antarctic with their presence - they should know better), and the Kiwis are treating it as diversionary sport - my money will be on Jon getting the fuel to be out of there within 3 days!