As the Middle East conflict escalates, panic buying has emerged as the primary threat to Australia's fuel supplies, with regional service stations struggling to replenish stocks. Despite government assurances of ample supply, demand has surged by up to 238% in areas like the Barossa and Adelaide Hills, leaving many country stations dry.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen urged calm in parliament, stating that the nation does not face a fuel shortage. 'The biggest risk to availability in Australia right now is panic buying,' he said, noting a 'massive spike' in demand that has seen fuel sales double and triple in some regions. He emphasised that fuel deliveries continue to arrive from overseas.
However, regional fuel distributor Bartranz Petroleum reported receiving only 10% of its usual volume from Brisbane, accusing the government of ignoring distribution problems. Peter Khoury of the NRMA described a 'vicious cycle' where panic buying strains supply, exacerbating the issue. He called on oil companies to ensure supply chains function properly.
Peter Jones of the Motor Trades Association of Australia explained that independent stations without contracts with major oil companies are often last in line for resupply. 'There's plenty of petrol in the country, but it's designed to be distributed in normal circumstances,' he said, urging motorists to buy fuel as usual and treat staff with respect.
The government has convened an emergency taskforce involving farming, transport, and fuel bodies to monitor the situation. At its first meeting, the group acknowledged regional supply chain pressures but maintained that overall fuel supply remains stable.
