WILD fluctuations in petrol prices are hitting Redlands motorists hard, with calls for reform to stop sudden spikes at the bowser.
Springwood MP Mick de Brenni says Queensland’s petrol pricing system is “broken”, leaving drivers exposed to steep overnight increases that can blow a hole in household budgets.
“Wild price fluctuations at the petrol bowser are all too familiar a sight for people living in the Redlands,” Mr de Brenni said.
“It’s particularly concerning because petrol is such a vital part of daily life.
“For most of us petrol isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity — but too often it’s priced like a luxury good.”
Mr de Brenni said many residents were frustrated by the lack of warning when prices jump sharply.
“I hear it everywhere — people are sick of being stung by sudden fuel price spikes,” he said.
“And people are sick of feeling helpless to do anything about it.”
Mr de Brenni said petrol prices in Queensland could rise dramatically in a single day, leaving drivers with little choice but to pay higher prices if their tank was nearing empty.
“In Queensland, petrol prices can skyrocket overnight with little warning,” he said.
“Retailers hike prices dramatically in a single day. Drivers caught unawares and with the tank nearing empty are left with no choice but to fill up and pay a hefty price.
“It’s not fair and it’s not right.”
He said Labor had introduced a Transport Affordability Bill in the Queensland Parliament aimed at limiting price shocks at the pump.
Under the proposal, petrol stations would be prevented from increasing fuel prices by more than five cents a day.
Retailers would also be required to lock in and publicly advertise their prices by 2pm the day before they take effect.
“That would reduce the potential for nasty surprises at the pump,” Mr de Brenni said.
“It would also give Queenslanders a better chance to shop around for the most competitive price.
“This is common-sense reform and it’s backed by the RACQ.”
Mr de Brenni said similar fuel price regulation was already operating in Western Australia.
“In Western Australia it means the peak prices are always lower, and they are lower every week,” he said.
Labor has also launched a petition calling on the state government to support the proposed reforms.
The bill also seeks to protect the state’s 50-cent public transport fares, requiring any future attempt to increase fares to be debated openly in Parliament.
“Under our plan, it will be much harder for any government to increase the 50-cent fare regime,” Mr de Brenni said.
“Transport should be affordable, whether you’re driving into the city or catching the bus to work or uni.
“You deserve certainty, and fairness.
“And you deserve a government prepared to stand up to protect your household budget.”
