Fuel shortages hit regional towns as Batlow runs out of petrol

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Fuel shortages are being reported at service stations across Australia, triggering panic buying and long queues in some areas. However, residents in the small town of Batlow are facing an even tougher situation their only petrol station has completely run out of fuel.

The independent service station, located more than 400 kilometres from Sydney, ran dry earlier this week. Staff say they still have no clear date for when new supplies will arrive.

Local worker Sam Hughes said independent fuel operators are struggling to secure petrol at reasonable prices. As a result, smaller stations are being pushed out of the market while large fuel companies dominate supply.

Local MP Joe McGirr said he has heard similar concerns from other independent retailers. Some stations are running low, while others have already run out of fuel.

Regional communities are particularly vulnerable during shortages because they often have only a few service stations and rely heavily on fuel for daily life. In Batlow, many residents need petrol not only for vehicles but also for tractors and farming machinery.

With the town’s station empty, locals are now travelling about 30 minutes to Tumut to fill up. For drivers with very little fuel left and no public transport options, the trip can be difficult.

The shortage linked to global supply disruptions following conflict involving Iran is hitting regional Australia the hardest. Agriculture, transport and emergency services all depend heavily on reliable fuel supplies.

In response, Chris Bowen announced the federal government will release up to 20 per cent of its emergency fuel reserves, adding more than 760 million litres of petrol and diesel to the domestic market.

Authorities say the additional fuel will help stabilise supply, with priority given to regional communities most affected by the shortage.

For now, Batlow residents are relying on community support while they wait for fuel deliveries to resume. When those supplies will arrive remains uncertain.

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