A major fire has erupted at one of Australia’s key oil refineries, raising concerns over petrol supplies amid an ongoing global fuel crunch.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the Corio oil refinery, operated by Viva Energy, shortly before midnight on Wednesday following reports of explosions and large flames. The refinery is a critical facility, producing around 50% of Victoria’s fuel and about 10% of the nation’s supply.
No injuries have been reported, but the fire continues to burn, prompting authorities to issue air quality warnings to nearby residents.
Although the refinery remains partially operational, production of petrol is expected to be affected. Jet fuel and diesel output will continue at reduced levels as safety measures remain in place.
Australia’s Energy Minister, Chris Bowen, described the incident as poorly timed, noting that fuel supplies are already under pressure due to the global oil crisis triggered by tensions involving Iran.
In recent weeks, diesel prices in Australia have surged sharply, with some areas reporting shortages and panic buying. Airlines have also begun scaling back services as jet fuel costs rise.
Authorities confirmed that the fire was likely caused by equipment failure, and an investigation is now underway.
The refinery, which produces around 120,000 barrels of oil per day and employs over 1,100 workers, had between 50 and 100 staff on site at the time of the incident. All were safely evacuated.
Officials say the blaze has impacted two petrol production units, while others remain intact. However, operations will only resume fully once it is deemed safe to do so, with safety being the top priority for the company.
