Hoarding fuel could cost you your home insurance: here’s how
Fuel, fuel, fuel, it's the news on almost every Aussie's mind. And it's prompting many drivers to pick up some dangerous habits.
As of March 2026, over 500 service stations across the country are without one or more fuel types.
New South Wales is currently the worst affected state with almost 300 service stations out of petrol or diesel.
Panic buying was cited by government officials as one of the biggest drivers of the mass shortage.
"These shortages are being caused by panic buying, not because fuel isn't coming into Australia," Victorian Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio told ABC Radio Melbourne.
Aside from supply issues causing major financial stress for drivers, several insurance experts, including major insurer NRMA, have warned Aussies of the danger of stockpiling fuel at home.
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"We are hearing troubling reports of people trying to stockpile the fuel at home, which, apart from not making any economic sense, is also extremely dangerous," said NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury.
Under the Insurance Contracts Act 1984, policyholders are responsible to inform their home insurer of any change that can cause increased risk to their property.
Failing to do so gives an insurer the right to reject claims in the event of disaster, like a fire.
Standard home and contents insurance provides cover up to a certain limit for flammable liquids — and hoarding multiple jerry cans of fuel can void your policy.
Should the fire spread beyond your property, your personal liability cover may also not be applicable if a neighbour or bystander was injured.
What drivers can do right now to help with soaring fuel prices
According to Finder research, almost twice as many Aussies in March rated petrol in their top 3 most stressful expenses than the previous month.
With less than a day until the recently announced fuel excise cut comes into effect, it could still be weeks until drivers notice a difference at their nearest service station.
Fortunately, there are still ways you can save/get the best price possible, like staying on top of fuel price monitoring apps, joining relevant memberships and taking public transport when it makes sense to.
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