Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the recent fire incident at Australia’s Viva Energy refinery, stating that despite the unfortunate timing amidst global oil supply challenges, the impact on fuel production is expected to be minimal. Albanese, who cut short his trip to Brunei and Malaysia to inspect the damage, confirmed that 80% of diesel and aviation fuel production remains unaffected.
Albanese mentioned that while petrol production at the refinery is currently operating at 60% capacity, efforts are underway to increase output in the coming days. The facility, a crucial contributor to Australia’s fuel supply, is striving to resume operations swiftly following the fire incident.
Authorities reported that the fire, triggered by equipment failure, occurred at the Geelong refinery, one of Australia’s two operational refineries. Michelle Cowling, deputy commissioner of Victoria’s fire and rescue service, attributed the blaze to a malfunction within the refinery.
The government plans to release its routine update on fuel stockpile levels on Saturday, aiming to keep the public informed about the situation and any potential implications on the national fuel supply.
