Western Australia is moving to compel fuel companies to disclose detailed supply chain data, as the state government escalates its response to ongoing fuel disruption.
The new fuel supply visibility measures will use emergency powers to require suppliers and distributors to provide real-time information on fuel movements across the state.
The move comes as regional shortages begin to emerge despite a stable national supply, highlighting gaps between fuel availability and distribution.
Why is WA introducing fuel supply visibility powers?
The Cook Government has identified a lack of transparency in the fuel supply chain as a key barrier to managing current disruptions.
While some suppliers have provided information voluntarily, others have not, limiting the government’s ability to respond effectively.
Premier Roger Cook said improved visibility is critical to ensuring fuel reaches priority sectors.
“We have had success in ensuring fuel is reaching our regions, but our efforts are being hampered by not having full visibility of the fuel supply chain,” Cook said.
The new powers will allow the government to compel industry to provide data, providing a clearer picture of how fuel is being distributed.
How will the fuel supply visibility powers work?
The government will activate provisions under the Fuel, Energy and Power Resources Act, enabling it to require suppliers to share detailed supply chain information.
Once enacted, the regulations will allow authorities to track where fuel is going and identify supply gaps in real time.
Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the powers are designed to support targeted intervention.
“By activating powers available to me, I will be able to make orders compelling suppliers and distributors to provide critical information about fuel chain supplies across our State,” Sanderson said.
The measures are specific to fuel supply management and differ from broader emergency powers used in other crises.
What is driving fuel distribution challenges in WA?
Despite assurances that fuel shipments will continue to arrive at expected levels, distribution across the state has been disrupted.
Global factors, including conflict in the Middle East and supply constraints in key shipping routes, are contributing to delays and uneven allocation.
This has already led to shortages in parts of regional Western Australia, particularly affecting mining and agricultural operations.
If conditions persist, further disruptions to distribution are expected, increasing pressure on key industries.
How does this fit into the national fuel response?
The fuel supply visibility measures align with level two of the national fuel security plan, which includes using legislative powers to access industry data.
Western Australia has taken a leading role in advancing coordinated responses, including contributing to the development of the national framework.
The state has also implemented a broader set of measures, including securing additional fuel supplies and establishing an industry support taskforce.
What does this mean for freight and logistics?
For freight operators, improved visibility into fuel supply could help reduce uncertainty about availability, particularly in regional areas.
Access to accurate, timely data enables more targeted fuel allocation, supporting continuity across transport networks.
It also allows governments to prioritise critical supply chains, including food, agriculture and mining logistics.
Sanderson said the goal is to ensure fuel reaches the sectors that need it most.
“This is a targeted sensible measure that will ensure we can direct fuel where it is needed most, particularly to our regional communities,” she said.