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A NEW national fuel supply taskforce has been established as concerns grow over diesel availability in regional Australia, with the ACCC also launching an investigation today into alleged anti-competitive conduct involving diesel supply in rural Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese this morning announced the appointment of Anthea Harris to head a new fuel supply taskforce, aimed at improving coordination across Federal and State governments and industry sectors.

Mr Albanese noted the International Energy Agency has now rated the Gulf conflict as the biggest shock to global oil markets in history.

The taskforce, to be led by Ms Harris, formerly chief executive of the Australian Energy Regulator, will be responsible for coordinating the distribution of fuel to areas of greatest need.

Mr Albanese said the Commonwealth Government is responsible for fuel security and supply, while states and territories are responsible for distribution within their jurisdictions.

“The fuel supply task force co-ordinator will be responsible for the following: leading a new fuel supply task force that will be established in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet; driving co-ordination between the Commonwealth and the states and territories on fuel security and supply chain resilience; providing consistent, co-ordinated updates to the Commonwealth and states and territories on our fuel supply outlook; and acting as a single convening point for fuel supply and forward planning,” he said.

Rationing possibility raised

The prospect of potential fuel rationing is also attracting increasing attention.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles did not rule out the possibility of rationing when asked about it on Australian breakfast television this week.

“Obviously, this is a function of how long this conflict continues, and that’s not something that I can answer in terms of what’s going to happen,” he said.

“But we are taking the measures that we’re taking right now, and it is a matter of people just going about their business normally and calmly.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns told media this week the prospect of fuel rationing has been discussed as part of contingency planning at National Cabinet level.

ACCC investigates diesel supply concerns

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has also announced an investigation into allegations of anti-competitive conduct by major fuel suppliers Ampol, BP, Mobil and Viva Energy.

The ACCC said it has received reports concerning diesel availability to independent wholesalers and distributors servicing regional and rural Australia, and will assess the alleged conduct.

“The ACCC is closely scrutinising all fuel markets during this period, and we have received reports of alleged anti-competitive behaviour. We are therefore investigating these matters urgently,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

“It is not our usual practice to publicly announce investigations, but given the significance of the issue, the ACCC is confirming this enforcement investigation. We recognise the widespread concerns held by consumers, businesses and farmers about fuel pricing and supply issues arising during the Middle Eastern conflict.”

“It is important that fuel market participants and the community know that we are closely watching market conduct in relation to all fuels and we will not hesitate to act swiftly to enforce Australia’s competition and consumer laws,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

“Our investigation is at a preliminary stage, and therefore we are yet to form a view about these matters.”

Farmers call for swift action

The National Farmers’ Federation has welcomed both the ACCC investigation and the appointment of Anthea Harris as Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator.

“At a time of high uncertainty, there is no room for bad behaviour. If misconduct is found, farmers and regional communities expect the ACCC to take strong action,” NFF president Hamish McIntyre said.

Mr McIntyre said a national coordinator proved effective during the COVID pandemic, and urged the Government not to waste time in getting fuel to farmers and fishers who need it most.

“We acknowledge the global factors at the core of these issues, and that the need for a calm and considered approach to supply chain issues is imperative in responding to global trade and import disruptions.

“But the reality is empty pumps and unfilled diesel orders are adding real stress to farmers working within tight harvest and planting windows.

“The Government must provide clear and timely information on how we will get diesel flowing into the regions and what triggers will see further action if these issues continue to persist.”