Small petrol stations urge Albanese government to crack down on fuel wholesalers as operators run dry

Independent petrol station operators and businesses like miners are calling on the Australian federal government to intervene in the fuel market due to supply disruptions. These smaller operators allege that major fuel wholesalers are hoarding supply and withholding deliveries, leading to fuel shortages, particularly in rural and regional areas. The disruptions are occurring amid growing instability related to the Iran war, impacting outlets that rely on the spot market rather than long-term contracts. These businesses are requesting assistance, including intervention from the government's fuel supply tsar, to ensure adequate fuel access and prevent further economic disruption. The operators want the government to crack down on the major fuel wholesalers.