Australia says fuel supply “remains strong” despite local shortages

Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen said on Saturday, April 4, that the country’s fuel supply “remains strong,” emphasising that deliveries to service stations are continuing across the country.

Providing a weekly update in Sydney, Bowen told reporters that Australia currently holds approximately 39 days of petrol, 29 days of diesel, and 30 days of jet fuel in reserve. He noted that these figures have remained largely unchanged, indicating a steady flow of fuel through the system.

“The fact these figures are effectively flat means fuel is going out the door to service stations and farmers, and fuel is going in the door at Australia's import terminals and refineries,” Bowen said.

He added that the number of petrol stations experiencing shortages is declining, as authorities and suppliers work to replenish stocks. According to Bowen, around 50 fuel shipments are currently en route to Australia.

“Australia's fuel supply remains strong, still more than 50 ships on their way to Australia,” he said, noting that while six orders had been cancelled, they were replaced with new ones.

Diesel supply remains under the greatest strain, with 312 out of roughly 8,000 service stations nationwide currently without diesel, Bowen said.

The minister also reiterated the government’s guidance ahead of the Easter holiday period, urging Australians to proceed with their travel plans but to purchase only the fuel they need. He advised motorists to refuel in urban areas where possible in order to help maintain supplies in regional parts of the country.

By Tamilla Hasanova