Farmers and business owners in New South Wales are facing a surge in fuel thefts as diesel prices skyrocket, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The NSW Rural Crime Prevention team has reported multiple incidents of diesel theft over the past fortnight, highlighting a growing concern for regional communities.
Police investigations are currently underway following the theft of 800 litres of diesel from a property near Orange and another 500 litres allegedly stolen from a farm in Nyngan, west of Dubbo. Additional reports include 180 litres taken from a truck on a farm in Duri, near Tamworth, and about 150 litres from a fuel storage facility in Collie, west of Gilgandra.
Impact of Rising Oil Prices
The increase in thefts coincides with a significant rise in diesel prices, which have jumped from an average of 182 cents per litre in February to over 260 cents per litre by mid-March. According to the International Energy Agency, the war in the Middle East has resulted in “the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market,” particularly affecting crude and oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.
These disruptions have left some petrol stations without fuel, while residents in regional areas report waiting weeks for bulk diesel stock replenishments. “Farmers need their diesel to get their crops in, spray their crops, and run their equipment,” said Detective Acting Inspector Andrew McLean. “Any disruption to the supply of diesel is of great concern to us.”
Case Study: The Impact on Farmers
Beetroot farmer Ed Fagan from Cowra is among those affected. He estimates that over 1,000 litres of diesel were stolen from engines that power pumps on his property in late January.
“They had quite an elaborate system where they would cut into the delivery line out of the tank … and it went into an open door on the side of the van where they were filling 20-litre drums,”
Mr. Fagan explained.
Police have executed a search warrant and seized a van allegedly used in the theft, but no arrests have been made as inquiries continue. Mr. Fagan noted that diesel thefts are an “ongoing problem” affecting not just his operations but also those of his neighbors and contractors in the area. He emphasized that the broader supply chain issues are exacerbating the problem.
“One — it costs a lot, the price of fuel has gone up by at least a dollar a litre in the last two weeks, so it’s a massive rise,”
he said.
“Secondly — the availability. If we were ordering bulk fuel at the moment, the wait is about three weeks. When you’re an irrigator, that’s just not an option.”
Preventive Measures and Community Vigilance
Authorities are urging landholders to enhance security measures, including installing fuel monitoring systems, gate sensors, and CCTV around fuel storage areas and where vehicles are parked. Community members are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity, particularly involving vehicles carrying large drums or jerry cans, which may indicate stolen diesel being transported.
Acting Inspector McLean appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report all instances of fuel theft. “We are appealing to the public in this current environment to report all fuel theft,” he said. Police advise anyone who suspects a fuel theft to avoid disturbing the area to preserve the crime scene and report the incident immediately.
Looking Ahead
The rise in diesel thefts amid escalating prices and supply disruptions poses a significant challenge for regional communities reliant on agriculture. As the situation in the Middle East continues to impact global oil markets, the need for effective security measures and community cooperation becomes increasingly critical.
Farmers and business owners are advised to stay informed about market developments and explore alternative fuel security solutions. Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate reported thefts and seek to bring those responsible to justice.
