As many as 51 petrol stations have run dry across New South Wales, as a worsening fuel shortage begins to impact daily life, driving up food prices and triggering a rise in fuel theft.
Authorities have confirmed that 51 stations were out of petrol yesterday, while a further 164 had no diesel, highlighting the scale of the crisis.
As the fuel shortage spirals, reports have emerged of individuals stockpiling fuel, with one person seen filling a large storage container.
Criminals have also begun targeting vehicles parked on the street, siphoning petrol directly from tanks.
The trend, also reported in Victoria, has raised concerns as the crime wave linked to the crisis worsens.
The impact is also being felt by consumers, particularly at fruit and vegetable shops, where prices are rising sharply due to increased transport costs.
At local stores across Sydney, grocers say deliveries have slowed significantly.
Produce transported from interstate, including broccoli and fennel, has been among the hardest hit, with price increases estimated between 25 and 30 per cent.
Small businesses are also struggling to cope.
With pressure mounting, authorities have flagged possible rationing measures.
Meanwhile, shoppers are adjusting their behaviour, combining errands into single trips to reduce fuel use.
A proposal to offer free public transport over the Easter long weekend, estimated to cost up to $15 million, has been rejected by the government.
NSW Transport Minister John Graham says he welcomes any good ideas, but they are focused on long-term solutions.
Source: 7NEWS
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