Energy Minister: Australia's fuel supply is strong and there are no plans to ration it

Chris Bowen, Australia's Energy Minister, said that the country's fuel supply is strong and there are no immediate plans to restrict fuel to deal with the Iran 'war'' impact on its'supply chain'.

As the U.S./Israeli conflict escalates, Australia has seen localised fuel shortages.

Bowen, in a televised statement, said that the nation had 38 days worth of petrol, and 30 days worth of diesel and jet-fuel. He cited data collected on Saturday. He said that despite the cancellations of six fuel shipments from Asia, supply remains strong.

While we're dealing with uncertainty, two refineries are still working at full capacity. He said that it would be nice to have more refineries, but there are two and the boats continue to arrive.

Bowen responded that the government is "a long way" from using emergency powers for fuel rationing.

The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has again warned Australians against buying fuel in a panic because of?shortages' in rural areas.

Albanese, in an official transcript, said: "People must engage responsibly, and I'm certain that Australians will do this overwhelmingly."

Albanese announced last week that his government would 'roll out additional measures to ensure fuel supply. Anthea Harris will be appointed as the head of a national fuel supply taskforce to address shortages and improve domestic fuel supply chains.

(source: Reuters)