Fuel crisis escalates as panic buying worsens shortages

Australia faces fuel supply constraints as Middle East conflicts disrupt approximately 20% of global oil supply, prompting the Prime Minister to establish a National Fuel Supply Task Force. The consumer watchdog has launched a formal probe into allegations of anti-competitive conduct by major fuel companies. Panic buying has amplified the crisis, with demand increasing by 50% despite Australia having 30 days of diesel reserves that could stretch to 150 days if consumption remained normal, while service station workers face increasing abuse from frustrated customers despite having no control over fuel prices.

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