Viva Energy Australia’s Geelong Refinery was recently featured on ABC’s 7.30 Report, highlighting its vital role in supplying Victoria’s fuel needs and helping preserve Australia’s domestic fuel refining capability.
Executive General Manager Bill Patterson explained how the refinery ensures Australia maintains fuel-manufacturing capacity, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening national resilience. With Australia importing about 80% of its fuel requirements, the Geelong refinery is one of only two facilities in the country that can help secure domestic supply – particularly during periods of global uncertainty.
The refinery supplies approximately 10% of Australia’s liquid fuel demand, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel that keeps planes flying and vehicles moving across the nation.
Beyond fuel security, Viva Energy makes a significant local contribution to Victoria. The Geelong Refinery provides high-skilled, well-paid jobs and serves as a critical training ground for apprentices. Over the past four years, Viva has contributed $1 billion in wages and supported regional businesses, while investing more than $1 billion in capital projects—including a new ultra-low sulfur gasoline plant, 90 million litres of strategic diesel storage, and major maintenance programs.
Keeping Australian refineries like Geelong operating is essential for fuel security, national security, and local communities.