Australia — Page 72

Location · 186 stories from 316 outlets in the last 7 days · 1,602 published stories all time · All places

Fire at Australia's Geelong Refinery Raises Fuel Supply Concerns

AI summaryA fire at Viva Energy's Geelong refinery, one of Australia's two working oil refineries, has reduced production to 80% capacity, prompting concerns about fuel supply amid global oil disruptions. The company has promised not to pass costs to consumers, while the government has secured additional diesel imports. The incident also highlights Australia's broader fuel and bitumen vulnerabilities.

3 outlets · 4 articles Apr 16, 2026

CFMEU leaders had 'the ear' of former state government, inquiry hears

AI summaryA Queensland inquiry into the CFMEU has heard allegations that union leaders had inappropriate influence over state government and safety regulators, including claims of a 'hit list' of inspectors and direct access to ministers. Multiple witnesses, including former officials and inspectors, testified about regulatory capture and intimidation. The inquiry, now in its eighth round of hearings, continues to examine misconduct and corruption allegations.

1 outlet · 4 articles Apr 16, 2026

Former US Marine pilot loses appeal against extradition from Australia to face China-related charges

AI summaryDaniel Duggan, a former US Marine pilot and Australian citizen, has lost a Federal Court appeal against his extradition to the US, where he faces charges of illegally training Chinese pilots. His wife expressed the family's suffering and vowed to continue fighting. The case has drawn attention to Australia's extradition laws and the family's lengthy legal battle.

2 outlets · 2 articles Apr 16, 2026

Geelong Refinery Fire to Impact Petrol Production 'For Some Time'

AI summaryA major fire at the Viva Energy oil refinery in Geelong, one of Australia's only two operational refineries, has forced petrol production down to 60% capacity and is expected to impact supply for some time. Energy Minister Chris Bowen stated the blaze appears accidental, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been visiting Southeast Asian nations to secure fuel imports amid an ongoing global oil crisis.

1 outlet · 7 articles Apr 15, 2026

Farmer Feels 'Disrespected' as VicGrid Threatens Fines and Court Orders for Transmission Line Access

AI summaryA Victorian farmer has blocked access to his land for the VNI West transmission project, saying he feels 'disrespected' by VicGrid's approach, which includes threats of fines and court-entry orders. While over 170 landholders have agreed to surveys, a vocal resistance movement has grown, and one farmer who supports the project will receive over $2 million in compensation.

1 outlet · 3 articles Apr 15, 2026

Australia Unveils Record Defence Spending Boost, Falling Short of Trump's Demands

AI summaryAustralia's Labor government announced a record $425 billion defence spending plan over the next decade, adding $53 billion to boost capabilities and self-reliance. The plan raises spending to 3% of GDP by 2033 under NATO methodology, but still falls short of President Trump's 3.5% demand. Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized the indispensable US alliance while stressing greater self-reliance.

2 outlets · 4 articles Apr 15, 2026

Queensland e-bike licensing laws could hit delivery services and shared e-vehicle schemes, industry warns

AI summaryProposed Queensland laws requiring e-bike and e-scooter riders to have a driver's licence and imposing a 10km/h speed limit on cycle lanes have sparked warnings from delivery giants like Uber Eats and DoorDash and shared e-vehicle operators. Industry figures argue the changes could severely reduce delivery rider numbers and render shared schemes uninsurable, while disability advocates and tourism bodies also raise concerns.

2 outlets · 3 articles Apr 15, 2026