Rising fuel costs force Victorian taxi drivers to work longer hours and seek extra jobs

Shepparton-based taxi driver Jassi Bhangu explains that the termination of the government’s fuel excise discount on August 3 caused petrol and diesel prices to rise above $2 per litre, compelling drivers to log up to 12 hours a day to earn enough. He notes that families are feeling the strain, with children asking when he will return home. Bhangu adds that many in the trade are now contemplating secondary jobs because earnings remain insufficient despite longer hours.

APCO’s Peter Anderson says his chain does not anticipate any fuel shortages, citing stable supplies from Mobil and Viva and a rerouted flow from Singapore refineries. He acknowledges a modest increase in consumer prices and occasional minor stock-outs due to panic buying, but stresses that overall product availability is secure.