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Fire disrupts key Australian oil refinery
Fuel prices in Australia could climb further after a major fire broke out at the Viva Energy refinery in Geelong, Victoria, disrupting nearly half the state's petrol production and 10% of the national supply.
Blaze contained after 13-hour battle
Emergency crews responded to reports of explosions and flames at the Corio refinery just before midnight on Wednesday. Firefighters brought the blaze under control after 13 hours, though the facility remains partially operational.
Rescue officials attributed the fire to equipment failure, according to BBC correspondent Simon Atkinson, reporting from Melbourne.
Supply chain concerns grow
The refinery supplies 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia's total output. Government officials have warned of potential petrol production shortfalls in the coming days, compounding existing price pressures linked to the Iran conflict.
Motorists across the country have already faced rising costs at the pump in recent weeks, with industry analysts suggesting the latest disruption could push prices even higher.
What happens next
Viva Energy has not confirmed a timeline for full operations to resume. The federal government is monitoring fuel stocks and may release strategic reserves if shortages emerge, though no decision has been announced.
Energy Minister Madeleine King stated earlier today that authorities are working with industry to assess the impact on supply chains, with an update expected by Friday.
