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• Authorities dismiss requests for gasoline rationing
• READ MORE: Angry Trump delivers a menacing warning to Iran

Energy Minister Chris Bowen has stated he is not currently considering implementing fuel rationing due to concerns that limitations might be introduced.

The attention arises as the conflict in the Middle East escalates, withIranThe choice to restrict access to the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil bottleneck, caused a rise in international oil prices and affected maritime routes.

The sudden impact has spread through global supply networks, causing fuel price surges in Australia and affecting service stations, especially in rural regions acrossNSW, Victoria, Queenslandand WA running out of fuel.

Bowen stated that even amid the chaos, Australia’s emergency fuel supplies had actually increased since the conflict started.

‘We have 38 days’ worth ofpetroland 30 days’ supply of diesel and jet fuel, with both our refineries operating at maximum capacity and fully focused on supplying Australia,’ he said to ABC Insiders.

Host David Speers questioned him about the possibility of rationing being necessary within weeks if key deliveries did not arrive. Bowen rejected the idea.

“That’s something we’re still far from,” he remarked.

If we get approximately 74 out of the 80 vessels anticipated in April and May, and our refineries are operating at maximum capacity, this suggests ample supply.

Bowen admitted that the public perceives a contradiction, with fuel reserves still appearing ample on paper, while servos are running low.

Both statements can hold true. It’s possible to have significant domestic fuel imports while facing severe distribution issues.

He insisted that the number of ship arrivals had not declined.

“The delivery of fuel supplies has slightly gone up,” Bowen mentioned.

However, he cautioned that ambiguity arises from mid-April onward, as international shipping routes might become more unpredictable.

That provides us with some understanding of the circumstances we are facing,” he remarked, emphasizing that the situation is challenging but “not disastrous.

Bowen also challenged concerns about an abrupt, complete breakdown in supply.

“People believe that someday all the vessels will cease. This is unlikely to happen. It is far more probable that there will be disruptions in supply that we will handle,” he stated.

Speers focused on the problem affecting Australians most immediately, empty fuel tanks in various areas.

Bowen attributed a sharp and unexpected increase in consumer behavior.

“We observed a 100% surge in demand within a few days, and when demand doubles, no supply chain can handle it,” he stated.

Reiterated the likelihood of rationing within the next two to three weeks, Bowen declined to set any specific threshold.

“We are not considering the need to employ any of those powers,” he stated, encouraging the public not to engage in panic buying.

Please purchase the amount of fuel you require, neither more nor less.

The government has pledged to tackle the persistent supply chain issues, naming former Energy Regulator CEO Anthea Harris as the new ‘fuel tsar’ to work with states and territories and manage national fuel distribution.

The opposition has claimed her appointment was not needed and that the responsibility should clearly lie with Energy Minister Chris Bowen.

“This is essential because Chris Bowen has not performed his duties adequately,” said Shadow Energy Minister Dan Tehan earlier this week.

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