Australia to release nearly 20% of fuel stockpile as Bowen insists country ‘nowhere near’ running out

Energy minister cuts fuel companies’ minimum stock obligations to free up diesel and petrol which will be directed to regional Australia Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralia will begin releasing its stockpile of fuel after the government directed fuel companies to release nearly a fifth of reserve petrol and diesel supplies.The energy minister, Chris Bowen, acknowledged fuel supplies could face further pressure but ruled out a cut to the fuel excise or rationing fuel purchasing. Continue reading...