National audit finds some fuel bowsers are short-changing Aussies

A new national audit has revealed some Australian drivers have been short-changed at the bowsers.

Preliminary results from the investigation, which was run by Australia’s peak measurement body, found almost one in 20 fuel pumps undersupplied their customers.

Auditors tested almost 3000 pumps and found one-in-three retailers failed to completely comply.

“If a fuel dispenser gives a consumer less fuel than they paid for, our inspectors remove it from service until the operator fixes it and proves it is accurate,” the National Measurement Institute (NMI) said in a statement.

“We are using the results to keep industry standards high.”

The government department issued 199 non-compliance notices during the audit and confirmed it would investigate two enforcement matters.

The investigation also found 133 dispensers, or 4.5 per cent of bowsers, over-delivered to motorists. 

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Fuel excise discount extended for another month, but at reduced rate

“The audit also showed that many traders need better checks,” the NMI said.

“Only 29 per cent had quality assurance processes in place. 

“Traders with these checks were less likely to have serious problems.”

The government department will release the final results of the audit later this year.

“We will use the final results to act where needed to make sure drivers get the fuel they pay for,” the NMI said.

Last week the government confirmed Australians would receive a 16 cents per litre reduction on fuel throughout July in an extension of the fuel excise cut.

However, savings at the bowser will be less than they have been in recent months.

A three-month excise relief program was first announced in March, aimed to balance the rising cost of fuel following the start of the war in Iran and closure of the Strait of Hormuz impacting supplies.

It was originally a 26.3 cents per litre discount on petrol and diesel, which was due to expire at midnight on June 30.

Now, the government’s announced the relief will be extended until August 2, but the discount won’t be as significant.

The government is giving Aussies 16 cents per litre off petrol and diesel instead. 

This means prices at the bowser could rise, but the excise is still expected to save Aussies around $11 for a 65 litre tank, according to the government.