Issue Date:  -  Tuesday, 20 May 2003

FuelWatch expanded

WA motorists can now use FuelWatch to access fuel prices from fuel retailers in 24 more towns and 5 new shires around the State.

Patrick Walker, Consumer Protection's Prices Commissioner said local and holiday motorists will benefit from upfront information about petrol prices in the new towns and shires.

"Motorists will be able to find out what the fuel prices are before entering the station and therefore will be able to shop around for the best prices."

Thirteen towns originally considered for inclusion in the new FuelWatch boundaries have been excluded.

"Ten towns have been excluded following requests from local governments. However, we will reconsider these towns if there is strong representation from the community to review the decision. We have already received a petition from residents of Katanning which we are currently considering."

"Retailers in the extended areas must notify FuelWatch of the following day's prices by 2pm each day, maintain the price for a fixed 24-hour period from 6am and sites in non-metropolitan areas must display price boards. These requirements apply form 21 May 2003 onward.

"Retailers who do not already have price boards must have taken steps to ensure they have fully operational prices boards in place by 10 June.

"FuelWatch has been very successful in giving motorists early notification of fuel prices helping consumers to decide which station to buy from. It also means they know in advance whether prices will be cheaper today or tomorrow."

Retailers in the extended areas have been provided with an information kit, containing all the information they need to assist them.

FuelWatch provides prices on their website http://www.fuelwatch.wa.gov.au or telephone: 1300 55 08 08 (cost of a local call) and via local media.

Online motorists can also have fuel prices sent to them directly through the free FuelWatch email subscriber service by visiting the FuelWatch website.