The National Retail Association (NRA) has today voiced concern regarding the announcement from the QLD State Government that it would open a dozen state-owned fuel stations.
It is an unprecedented movie, with no other state or territory government in Australia having made such an extensive intervention into the market.
NRA Interim CEO Lindsay Carroll said there was concern the proposal would push small, independent operators out of the market.
"Retailers understand that cost-of-living is a huge issue at the moment, but we are concerned that such a dramatic proposal has been put forward with zero consultation," Ms Carroll said.
"12 government-run fuel stations across a vast state like Queensland is no silver bullet for the price consumers pay at the bowser. But we are concerned that small, independent-run stations will be chased out of the market by a taxpayer-funded competitor who undercuts them.
"We're yet to see a compelling case for this level of intervention into the fuel market. There needs to be a lot more detailed provided, including how much it will cost taxpayers.
"The government needs to engage in more thorough consultation with existing operators to ensure solutions are put forward that assist consumers and ensure judicious spending of taxpayer money."
The National Retail Association is the voice of modern retail, representing more than 60,000 stores across Australia. It has been serving businesses in the retail and fast-food sectors for close to 100 years.
