March 19 - Australia’s competition regulator has opened an investigation into claims of anti-competitive conduct by several leading fuel companies, naming Ampol, BP’s Australian operation, Mobil Oil Australia and a unit of Viva Energy.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said it received reports concerning the availability of diesel to independent wholesalers and distributors that supply regional and rural areas. The ACCC stated it will assess the alleged conduct to determine whether competition or consumer laws have been breached.
According to the regulator, the inquiry is at an early stage and no conclusions have been reached. The ACCC emphasised that it is closely monitoring fuel markets and will intervene if enforcement action is required to uphold competition and consumer protections.
A spokesperson for BP Australia said the company "acknowledges the ACCC’s investigation into its market practices," adding that it takes "these matters seriously and are reviewing the claims raised." Ampol and Viva Energy did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while ExxonMobil Australia declined to comment.
The 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 investigation." The regulator noted the probe follows concerns from consumers, businesses and farmers about fuel pricing and supply, set against uncertainty linked to the Middle Eastern conflict.
Summary
The ACCC has initiated a preliminary investigation into major fuel suppliers over reports that diesel was not being adequately supplied to independent wholesalers and regional distributors. BP Australia has acknowledged the investigation and is reviewing the claims, while other named companies have either not responded or declined to comment. The ACCC has not formed a view and is monitoring the situation for possible enforcement.
Key points
- The ACCC is investigating alleged anti-competitive conduct by Ampol, BP Australia, Mobil Oil Australia and a Viva Energy unit.
- Reports focus on diesel availability to independent wholesalers and distributors serving regional and rural areas.
- The probe is at an early stage; the ACCC is monitoring fuel markets and said it will act to enforce competition and consumer laws if necessary.
Risks and uncertainties
- The investigation is preliminary and the ACCC has not reached a view, leaving outcomes and potential enforcement actions uncertain - impacting the fuel and transport sectors.
- Ongoing concerns around diesel availability and pricing may affect regional businesses and agriculture, with implications for logistics and supply chains in rural areas.
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