US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Australian Watchdog Probes Major Fuel Suppliers over Anti-Competitive ...
The ACCC is investigating major fuel suppliers over diesel supply allegations amid rising prices and supply issues affecting regional wholesalers, farmers, and businesses, officials said.
- On Thursday, the ACCC launched an investigation into alleged anti-competitive conduct by major fuel suppliers including Ampol Ltd, BP Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, and Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd. The regulator is examining reports regarding diesel availability for independent wholesalers serving regional and rural Australia.
- Widespread concerns regarding fuel pricing and supply shortages have emerged amid the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged calm, warning that panic buying is exacerbating shortages while insisting national fuel supplies remain secure.
- Recent data shows wholesale petrol prices rose by an average of 42 cents per litre over three weeks, with Perth recording the largest petrol increase at 59.5 cents per litre and Sydney seeing diesel spike 67.8 cents per litre. The Federal Government responded by releasing 20 per cent of national fuel reserves.
- Prime Minister Albanese appointed former Australian Energy Regulator boss Anthea Harris as fuel tsar to coordinate supply security and state action. BP Australia acknowledged the ACCC's investigation into its market practices, while ExxonMobil Australia said it has been "working cooperatively with the Federal Government."
- While the investigation remains at a preliminary stage, ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb warned the regulator will not hesitate to act against any company attempting to exploit the situation for profit at the expense of Australians. The watchdog is closely monitoring market conduct across all fuel markets.
Insights by Ground AI
Podcasts & Opinions
13 Articles
13 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources13
Leaning Left2Leaning Right3Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Right
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources lean Right
43% Right
L 29%
C 28%
R 43%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
