Fuel supply fears as refinery fire burns on

Fuel supplies are expected to be impacted as a major fire at Geelong’s refinery in Corio continues to burn.

Authorities are working this morning to determine the extent of disruption.

Firefighters remain on scene at the Viva Energy Geelong Refinery after the blaze broke out at about 11.15pm on Wednesday, triggering explosions and a large emergency response.

Fire Rescue Victoria said the fire, centred in the refinery’s MOGAS unit, is still not under control but has been contained to the plant area and involves liquid fuels and gases.

All workers and emergency personnel have been accounted for, with no reported injuries.

The situation for the broader community has eased, with the earlier Watch and Act warning downgraded to advice level on Thursday morning, although smoke may still affect parts of the region.

A spokesperson for the Victorian government said firefighters are working to bring the fire under control as quickly as possible but it will burn for some time.

“The State Energy Controller is working with FRV and Viva to understand any effects to fuel supply, with impact assessments being conducted this morning,” the spokesperson said.

“At this time, no impacts to petrol and diesel production or storage capacity have been identified.”

The refinery is a critical piece of Australia’s fuel network, supplying close to 30 per cent of the nation’s fuel and operating as one of just two remaining refineries in the country.

The fire comes just one week after a new federal agreement aimed at boosting fuel supply through Geelong, with additional imports set to flow through the site under a deal backed by Export Finance Australia.

Authorities are urging residents to stay alert to updates via VicEmergency as the situation continues to evolve.

Emergency services remain on scene.