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Motorists still suffering as bans on confusing petrol discount displays commence

Andrews government fails to address the major concern of local motorists - the high fuel prices which Liberal-Nationals plans to inquire.

By Portal Admin - 2nd December 2016 - Back to News

Member for Morwell and Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs Russell Northe said the Andrews Labor Government's new laws to ban display of discounted fuel prices fails to address the major concern for local motorists – high fuel prices.

A ban on fuel retailers displaying discounted prices comes into effect today.

"Whilst the bans may help avoid confusion at the bowser for consumers, the reality is the actual price of fuel itself is still the biggest issue," Mr Northe said.

Mr Northe said country families were often hit hard by consistently high fuel prices, which added further to cost-of-living pressures.

"Public transport just isn’t an option in many parts of regional Victoria which means a large part of the family budget often goes into keeping the car running.

"This new regulation doesn’t actually deal with petrol prices or price discrepancies, but I will continue pushing for relief through the fuel price inquiry successfully established by the Liberal-Nationals."

Mr Northe said motorists in Latrobe Valley continually pay much more for fuel than neighbouring communities.

"Under the Liberal-Nationals' inquiry, fuel prices in regional Victoria and discrepancies between towns will be analysed, as well as the impact of pricing on regional families, businesses and communities."

The inquiry will look into pricing of unleaded, diesel and LPG fuels and:

Examine the methodology behind pricing, particularly the divide between metropolitan and regional communities

Consider approaches and initiatives elsewhere in Australia, with a view to reducing fuel prices

Look at fuel price comparison technology

Investigate the impact of pricing on families, businesses and industry

Assess the influence of regulations and legislation on fuel pricing

The Economic, Education, Jobs and Skills Committee will inquire into fuel prices in Regional Victoria with work to commence early next year and to be reported no later than the 1 October 2017.

Media contact: 5133 9088

Source: www.gippsland.com

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