Diesel users in Australia are still facing significant supply issues, with one in 30 service stations entirely out of diesel as of Monday, according to Energy Minister Chris Bowen. Wholesale prices have surged again after an initial slump, leaving diesel drivers without the same relief enjoyed by unleaded customers following the government's fuel excise cut.
Bowen reported that 3.4% of Australia's service stations had zero diesel, including 142 out of 2,400 in New South Wales, 51 out of 1,700 in Victoria, and 38 in Queensland. However, the overall number of stations without at least one fuel type fell from over 800 to fewer than 600 over the past week, according to state government data analysed by Guardian Australia.
Diesel wholesale prices dropped by about 20 cents a litre on Wednesday but then surged roughly 10 cents over the following five days, Australian Institute of Petroleum data shows, reflecting ongoing global cost increases. Meanwhile, petrol prices in capital cities fell nearly 32 cents a litre as retailers passed on tax relief from the Albanese government's fuel excise cut and state governments' return of GST on petrol sales.
Bowen urged Australians not to participate in a social media trend of filling fuel tanks with cooking oil, warning that drivers should only use manufacturer-recommended fuels. However, he noted the government has invested $1.1bn into developing biofuels, such as biodiesel from fats and vegetable oils, which he said could lower emissions and boost economic activity for farmers.
The government continues to secure new fuel shipments, with Bowen stating that no ships contracted for Australia have been cancelled, extra orders are being delivered, and supply is secure through April and into May. He added that the prime minister has engaged with international counterparts to ensure supply, particularly from south-east Asian partners.
Global crude oil prices remain volatile, with West Texas Intermediate surpassing US$115 before settling above US$111 on Monday, amid geopolitical tensions. The Australian government declined to comment on former US President Donald Trump's threats but reiterated its commitment to working with industry to maintain fuel supply security.
