Viva Energy has confirmed that operations at its Geelong Refinery are being stabilised following a fire that broke out in the facility gasoline complex on April 15.
The gas retailer has reassured motorists and commercial clients that fuel supplies will remain steady despite a temporary dip in production capacity.
The incident occurred within the refinery’s Alkylation Unit. Emergency protocols were immediately engaged, with Fire Rescue Victoria and onsite teams working through the night to extinguish the blaze by April 16.
Viva Energy reported that all personnel were safely accounted for with no injuries recorded.
While the fire was contained to the gasoline complex, the facility’s Residue Catalytic Cracking Unit (RCCU) was taken offline as a safety precaution. Consequently, the refinery is currently operating at reduced rates.
Geelong Refinery expects to be producing diesel and jet fuel at approximately 80 per cent of capacity and petrol at approximately 60 per cent of normal capacity.
Despite the shortfall, the company stated it holds sufficient fuel stocks to bridge the gap and expects to maintain normal fuel supply to customers following the incident.
Viva Energy plans to restart the RCCU within the coming weeks, pending a rigorous safety inspection. Once back online, overall production for petrol, diesel, and jet fuel is expected to climb back above 90 per cent of capacity.
A full assessment of the structural damage and the financial fallout is slated to begin.
While the refinery remains a strategic asset for the group, the total duration and cost of repairs are yet to be determined.
Viva Energy confirmed it maintains comprehensive insurance for property damage and business interruption.
The Geelong site remains one of only two fuel refineries left in Australia, highlighting its vital role in the nation’s sovereign energy security.
