The Australian Government has temporarily lowered diesel quality standards to increase fuel supply, as shortages affect hundreds of service stations nationwide. Energy Minister Chris Bowen said 564 service stations had run out of at least one fuel type, prompting action to improve availability.
The six-month measure reduces the minimum diesel flashpoint from 61.5°C to 60.5°C, allowing importers and local refiners greater flexibility in sourcing and producing fuel. Bowen said the adjustment would enable “additional diesel supply into Australia” without impacting engine performance or emissions.
The change aligns Australia more closely with international standards used in markets such as Europe and North America, where lower flashpoints are already common.
Shortages remain limited but widespread
While outages have been reported across multiple states, they represent a minority of total service stations.
New South Wales recorded the highest number of disruptions, with 289 sites missing at least one fuel type, including 164 without diesel. Victoria and Queensland also reported notable shortages, while other regions experienced more limited impacts.
No expected impact on vehicles
The Government said the revised standard would not require changes to storage or handling and is unlikely to affect vehicle performance. Similar measures were introduced in 2020 during COVID-19 supply disruptions, with no reported adverse outcomes.
Diesel remains significantly less flammable than petrol, even under the revised standard, due to its higher flashpoint.
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