The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has initiated an enforcement investigation into allegations of anti-competitive behavior by major fuel suppliers, including Ampol Ltd, BP Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, and Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd.

This investigation was prompted by reports concerning the availability of diesel to independent wholesalers and distributors in regional and rural Australia. The ACCC aims to assess the alleged conduct and its impact on the market.

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb emphasized the urgency of the investigation, stating that the commission is closely monitoring all fuel markets amid widespread concerns regarding fuel pricing and supply issues, particularly in light of the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict.

While it is not typical for the ACCC to publicly announce investigations, the significance of the issue has led to this decision. The ACCC reassures the community that it is vigilant in overseeing market conduct related to fuel and will take swift action to enforce competition and consumer laws.

The investigation is currently in its preliminary stages, and the ACCC has not yet formed a definitive view on the matters at hand. Additionally, the ACCC plans to release a weekly update on fuel prices, which will include data from 190 regional locations.