Sheila McHale

Sheila McHale

Minister for Disability Services; Tourism; Culture and the Arts; Consumer Protection

    ACCC report considers national adoption of WA's FuelWatch

    19/12/2007 9:34 AM
     
    19/12/07

    Consumer Protection Minister Sheila McHale says she is pleased Western Australia’s unique FuelWatch system has received national recognition.

    An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) report into petrol pricing has suggested consideration be given to introducing FuelWatch nationally.

    Ms McHale said the report on the ‘Inquiry into the price of unleaded petrol in Australia’ was based on a six-month intense review of the petrol market and highlighted FuelWatch as a highly useful tool for consumers.

    “The ACCC’s comprehensive report found that Perth has had the lowest retail margins in the nation since 2003,” the Minister said.

    “In addition, WA motorists are saving close to two cents per litre (cpl) at the bowser, which represents an annual saving to WA motorists of $32million.

    “WA motorists have been able to benefit from petrol price transparency and certainty in the fuel marketplace during FuelWatch’s seven-year history.”

    Ms McHale said FuelWatch meant WA motorists had not had to suffer the frustrations of intra-day price cycles, which resulted in price changes during the day in other States.

    “We know we can’t influence the international petrol market but we can have an effect on local prices by keeping consumers informed,” she said.

    “The combination of price transparency, certainty and consumer knowledge helps drive the competitive Perth fuel market.”

    FuelWatch is available to WA motorists 24 hours a day online at http://www.fuelwatch.wa.gov.au or automated telephone service on 1300 55 08 08. A free email subscription is also available and warns consumers a day before any price hikes.

    Minister's office - 9213 6900