Fuel supply

With global events impacting oil markets, we are seeing higher prices at the fuel pump and some localised shortages.

We know people are concerned, but Australia’s fuel is secure and continues to arrive in the quantities we’re expecting.
Our focus is on making sure Victorians can get fuel when and where they need it. When that’s not happening, we're working to address that quickly.

This webpage will be updated regularly, providing the latest information and the actions taken by the Australian and Victorian Governments to ensure supply.

National Fuel Security Plan

The Australian Government has announced that National Cabinet has agreed to the National Fuel Security Plan, which sets out how the Commonwealth, states and territories will work together to respond to fuel supply issues.

The Plan is designed to keep communities and businesses informed, and to provide early visibility of any further fuel security measures that may be needed.

The Plan includes 4 flexible levels that guide how governments and industry respond:

1. Plan and prepare
2. Keeping Australia moving (current level)
3. Taking targeted action
4. Protecting critical services for all Australians.

Each level outlines indicative actions and clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of governments and industry partners. Levels are not fixed and may move up or down depending on conditions.

The Victorian Government will continue to closely monitor the situation and respond as required.

To read more about the Plan, visit the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet website.

Temporary fuel excise reduction

The Australian Government has announced it will halve the fuel excise on petrol and diesel for three months, from Wednesday 1 April to 30 June.

This is expected to reduce fuel prices by around 26.3 cents per litre, saving around $19 on a 65‑litre tank.

Support for heavy vehicle operators

The Australian Government has announced the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge will be reduced to zero between 1 April and 30 June.

They have also deferred the next scheduled increase in the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge by six months.

Other national support

• Released 20% of domestic fuel reserves to support supply, with priority given to regional areas experiencing shortages.
• Strengthened ACCC monitoring and compliance arrangements to support transparency and oversight of fuel pricing.
• Temporary adjusted fuel quality settings to allow more domestically produced fuel to be sold locally and increase diesel imports.

Other Victorian support

• Free public transport between 31 March and 30 April, including Melbourne and regional trains, trams, buses and coach services. Find more information at the Transport Victoria website.
• Fuel price rules apply across Victoria. Service stations publish a daily maximum fuel price in advance, which can only stay the same or go down during the day.
• Servo Saver in the Service Victoria app shows fuel prices at Victorian service stations to help people compare prices and plan ahead.
• Fuel supply is being monitored through national coordination arrangements involving the Australian Government and states and territories.
• Information is being shared with fuel suppliers, businesses and agricultural groups to understand supply conditions and impacts.
• A Class 2 State Controller is supporting planning and preparedness across energy, agriculture and other important sectors.

How Victorians can help

We know many people are worried about fuel prices and availability. Simple steps can help make sure fuel stays available for everyone.

Plan ahead

• Buy only what you usually need, so no one has to go without.
• Fill up before you head out, especially if you rely on fuel for work, school or travel.

Check prices before you go

• Use Servo Saver in the Service Victoria app to check fuel prices near you.
• You can see where fuel is cheapest and plan when to fill up.

Be kind at the servo

• Service station staff are doing their best during a busy and stressful time.
• Please treat service station workers with patience and respect, just as you would expect at your own workplace.

Taking these small steps helps keep fuel available and reduces pressure across the system.

Staying safe with fuel

Petrol, diesel and other fuels are highly flammable and can pose serious risks to people, property and the environment if they are handled incorrectly.

Safe storage of fuel

Only store fuel in approved petrol or diesel containers with a UN approval mark, WorkSafe recommends portable containers filled at service stations should not exceed 25 litres.

Store fuel in a cool, well‑ventilated area, preferably in a detached shed or garage, not inside the home.

For more information about safely storing fuel visit WorkSafe website.

Transporting fuel safely

If you are transporting fuel for use at home, such as for your mower or generator, it must be in a compliant container, that is sealed, upright and secured to prevent tipping or movement.

Do not transport fuel inside the passenger area of a vehicle and avoid leaving containers in hot or enclosed spaces for long periods.

For more information about safely transporting fuel visit the WorkSafe website.

Safe disposal of fuel

Fuel should not be stored for long periods. Over time, fuel deteriorates and may become unsafe or unsuitable for use.

Never pour fuel down drains, onto the ground or into household rubbish bins. Old or degraded fuel should be disposed of safely through an approved disposal service, such as Detox Your Home.

Personal safety when handling fuel

Handle fuel in well‑ventilated areas and avoid breathing in fumes.

WorkSafe suggests when refuelling or transferring fuel, use appropriate protection such as gloves or eye protection where needed, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards.

For more information safely storing fuel visit the WorkSafe website.