Australia’s fuel retail sector is under sharper regulatory scrutiny, with the competition watchdog stepping in to closely examine a proposed deal between two of the country’s largest fuel networks. The move signals a growing focus on how consolidation could affect fuel prices, choice, and competition at the local service station level. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has escalated its review of Ampol’s plan to acquire EG Australia into a more detailed assessment phase. This decision reflects concerns that combining two major fuel networks could reduce competition in many suburbs and regional towns across the country. Why the regulator is ...

A recent incident near Stuart Wells has highlighted the very real risks service station operators and staff can face when responding to fuel theft. A young employee from a family owned roadhouse in remote South Australia has been charged following a serious crash that occurred after an alleged fuel drive off. Police allege that a vehicle refuelled at the roadhouse and left without paying, after which the worker pursued the vehicle in his own car. During the pursuit, police say a collision occurred between the two vehicles, causing the fleeing car to lose control and crash. The impact resulted in ...