E-Petition

The Petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House Queensland residents are experiencing significant and ongoing cost-of-living hardship as a result of sustained high fuel prices. Brisbane diesel prices have reached 303 cents per litre, among the highest levels recorded in Australia over recent years. Retail price cycles of up to five weeks produce fluctuations exceeding 100 cents per litre, placing considerable burden on households, tradespeople and small businesses — particularly those in areas with limited access to alternative fuel suppliers.

These price movements appear poorly correlated with global crude oil prices, raising concerns about the competitiveness of Queensland's retail fuel market. Queensland's geographic isolation and limited fuel terminal infrastructure reduce the competitive pressures that might otherwise moderate retail prices. The estimated annual cost to Queensland households and businesses is substantial, with families paying significantly more per vehicle each year and tradespeople facing thousands of dollars in additional operating costs.

With global energy supply risks increasing, the Queensland Government is respectfully asked to consider the long-term fuel security of the state.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to consider:

1. Legislating measures to limit excessive retail fuel price cycle volatility.
2. Requiring full compliance with real-time fuel price reporting obligations.
3. Investigating the establishment of state fuel terminal infrastructure on suitable government land.
4. Creating a Queensland Strategic Fuel Reserve to provide a meaningful supply buffer.
5. Introducing proportionate penalties for demonstrated fuel price gouging.