South Australia’s tougher penalties for petrol stations that fail to comply with the state’s real time fuel pricing scheme have now taken effect.

Fuel retailers must update fuel prices and availability within 30 minutes of any change. Failure to comply can now attract expiation notices of up to $5,000, an increase from $550, while maximum court penalties have doubled to $20,000.

Since March, Consumer and Business Services (CBS) has carried out more than 1,000 inspections across the state, issuing almost $20,000 in expiation notices for breaches including inaccurate fuel prices and failing to report when fuel was unavailable.

Breaches were recorded at a number of service stations across South Australia, which received notices for both fuel availability and price reporting.

Motorists can compare fuel prices using apps including RAA, Petrol Spy, MotorMouth, SA Bowser: Should I Fuel? and ServoTrack.

CBS Commissioner Brett Humphrey said the increased penalties were intended to deter non-compliance and ensure service stations update fuel prices and availability within the required 30 minutes.

Drivers can report suspected breaches or find information about approved fuel price apps through Consumer and Business Services.

Since March, more than 1000 inspections and nearly $20,000 in expiations have been issued to petrol stations across the state.
 
This includes: