All West Australian fuel retailers must report their prices to FuelWatch or face hefty fines under changes announced by the state government on Sunday.
Those who do not sign up to the scheme, which covers all metropolitan stores and currently about 80 percent of regional stores, face fines of up to $4000.
Labor claims the changes will make it quicker and easier for motorists to find cheaper fuel and move on from any shortages in WA.
However, Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas said the fines were “well and good, but that will not help to get the oil supply where it needs to go”.
“I remember on Thursday, the Prime Minister boasting that petrol would be reduced by 32 cents per litre, including taxes and GST compensation,” he said.
“But ask the diesel drivers, or those who need diesel equipment, for their businesses, for their farms, for their equipment, if they have seen that flow in the short time since the announcement was made.
“What is most important here, which is very important, is that the oil continues to flow into Western Australia and get to the places where it is needed.
Amendments to extend FuelWatch will come into effect on May 1, giving the Department of Local Government, Industrial Regulation and Safety, and retailers, time to prepare.
Under the scheme, retailers must list their fuel prices for the following day by 2pm, and must remain at that price for 24 hours from 6am.
The government believes the expansion of the program will see 200 more retailers added.
WA Premier Roger Cook highlighted further action on the flow of oil news as the conflict in the Middle East pushed global energy prices higher.
“Future measures that require retailers to indicate when they have run out of fuel, or are close to running out of fuel, will be of great benefit to families, farmers and businesses, and will also help the government better identify regions that are facing fuel shortages,” he said.
Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said FuelWatch was an “invaluable resource for motorists” which had proven its worth, attracting more than five million visits in March.
Last week, the government approached Gov. Chris Dawson to enact emergency powers so Sanderson and Cook could compel oil companies — including some of the nation’s largest chains — to hand over confidential information about oil reserves and supply chains.
Sanderson said both companies gave him more information, which he said showed emergency forces “had an immediate impact”.
Trade Minister Tony Buti said FuelWatch was the first program of its kind in the world when it was launched 25 years ago.
“In times of uncertainty, transparency is important,” he said.
“We will continue to work with retailers and the industry to ensure that FuelWatch continues to be a trusted source of information for people to see what’s available in their area.”
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