The Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) supports Senator Steve Fielding’s proposed amendments to Minister Macfarlane’s Oil Code legislation.

Senator Fielding’s amendments will, in essence, give independent fuel retailers the opportunity to compete fairly with the big players.

VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said Senator Fielding’s proposed amendments to the Petroleum Retail Legislation Repeal Bill would have a positive effect both on the industry and consumers.

“Senator Fielding’s proposal to limit the number of petrol stations that large operators like Coles and Woolworths could own to 25 per cent of the market, would ensure the continuing existence of independent operators,” he said.

“The competition from smaller independents ensures a better deal for motorists, because, as the ACCC has identified, it is the independent sector which has had the greatest influence in forcing prices down.”

Mr Purchase said the Senator’s inclusion of the issues of collective bargaining and an annual review of the Oil Code in his proposed amendments would also benefit the industry and motorists.

“VACC also strongly supports Senator Fielding’s proposal for independent operators to have equitable access to wholesale petrol at a fair price. On this matter, Minister Macfarlane’s proposed legislation, if successful, would decimate the independent sector and hand the industry to the control of the oil companies and their supermarket partners,” he said.

“Who in Australia believes we should hand control and domination of the industry to oil companies?”

“VACC thanks Senator Fielding for his stand for the small business service station sector and commend his proposed amendments,” Mr Purchase said.