04/16/2026, 07:4404/16/2026, 07:44
A major fire at an oil refinery in Geelong, Australia, has temporarily affected fuel production and is causing additional uncertainty in the supply of kerosene. The massive fire at the energy company Viva Energy’s plant broke out late on Wednesday evening (local time). There were also several explosions. According to the fire department, the fire is now under control.
The Viva Energy plant burned on Wednesday.Image: keystone
The facility near Melbourne is one of only two large oil refineries in the country. According to Viva Energy, it covers over 50 percent of the state of Victoria’s fuel needs and 10 percent of Australia’s total fuel needs. According to the company, the refinery can process up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day.
Australian airlines hit hard
The accident hits Australia hard because airlines are already struggling with sharp increases in fuel costs as a result of the Iran war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Only in the past few days did the airlines Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia announce that they would reduce or cancel domestic connections and bundle flights in response. In addition, ticket prices are expected to continue to rise.
Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been traveling through Southeast Asia for days to secure his country’s energy supply. After Singapore and Brunei, he is currently holding talks in Malaysia.
Technical defect as the cause
According to initial findings, the cause of the fire was a technical defect that caused flammable gases and liquids to catch fire. Production will initially continue to a limited extent for safety reasons: Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the refinery would continue to produce diesel and aviation fuel, but “at a reduced level”. The fire came at an “unfavorable time”.
According to the authorities, there was never any immediate danger to the population. However, people in the region should keep their windows closed as a precaution. The extent of the damage and possible long-term consequences are still unclear. (dab/sda/dpa)