Australia’s oil refineries hit by coronavirus impact

Covid impact: An oil tanker passing under Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney. Already dependent on imports for more than half its fuel needs after the closure of four refineries since 2003, industry and analysts say at least one of the country’s four remaining refineries could close unless the government steps in. — AFP

MELBOURNE: A coronavirus-driven collapse in fuel demand is threatening Australia’s oil refining industry, just as supply chain disruptions wrought by the pandemic have focused the government on the need to shore up fuel security.

Already dependent on imports for more than half its fuel needs after the closure of four refineries since 2003, industry and analysts say at least one of the country’s four remaining refineries could close unless the government steps in.