NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe has written to the chief executives of the major fuel companies to seek information to inform NSW's response to fuel distribution challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East.
While the Federal Government has confirmed that fuel deliveries to Australia continue to arrive as planned, NSW and other states are experiencing localised shortages and distribution issues in the face of increased demand.
The NSW Government is seeking historical information on storage and stocks, as well as sales and orders. We are also requesting information on future orders and forecasts.
This information will be used to form a more complete view on what is happening in the market and how the Government can work with the fuel industry and end customers to maintain economic activity through a period of uncertainty.
Right now, fuel supplies are arriving in NSW as expected and supply remains secure, but we are continuing to plan for all scenarios.
To support national coordination, the NSW Government has designated the Secretary of the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Anthony Lean as the state's fuel coordinator. Mr Lean is working with with Anthea Harris, who has been appointed as the Commonwealth's Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator.
The NSW Government's message remains that people should only buy as much fuel as they need.
Motorists are encouraged to download the NSW FuelCheck app or visit the FuelCheck website for daily information on fuel prices as an indication of the availability across the state.
Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe said:
"We are continuing to monitor the impacts the Middle East conflict is having on NSW fuel distribution.
"We are planning for all possible scenarios, noting the unpredictable nature of the overseas conflict and the potential for the fuel situation to deteriorate.
"As part of NSW's preparations, I have written to the major fuel companies seeking information about historical and future fuel orders.
"This will help us deal with emerging distribution issues and plan for future interventions, should they become necessary."
