Australia continues to rely heavily on imported fuel, raising concerns about how the country would cope if global supply routes were ever disrupted. Around four out of every five litres of the fuel used across the nation now comes from overseas, leaving the economy exposed to sudden changes in international conditions. A Shrinking Refining Sector Two decades ago, Australia had enough refineries to meet most of its own fuel needs. Over time, six of the eight facilities closed as they became too expensive to operate, leaving only two still running today. These are Ampol’s Lytton refinery in Brisbane and Viva ...

A very different kind of convenience store has appeared in Melbourne, with 7-Eleven trialling a location that operates entirely without staff. Instead of the usual mix of drinks, snacks and machines for coffee or frozen beverages, customers walk into a bright, simple space filled with vending machines, overhead cameras and background classical music. The test store is located at the busy intersection of Collins Street and Spencer Street in the CBD and has been set up as part of a short term trial. The idea is to see how city workers and commuters respond to a quick, automated experience that ...