Melbourne, 16 April 2026 (dpa/MIA) - A fire broke out at one of Australia's two operational oil refineries overnight, authorities said on Thursday.

Firefighters responded at about 11:15 pm (1315 GMT) on Wednesday to an incident at the MOGAS, or motor gasoline, unit of Viva Energy's refinery in Geelong, some 70 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, after reports of explosions and flames, Fire Rescue Victoria said in a statement.

The fire was not yet under control, but had been contained to the area where it started and involved liquid fuels and gases, the fire service said. No injuries were reported.

Viva Energy says the refinery in Geelong, one of two remaining refineries in Australia, supplies over 50% of the fuel used in the state of Victoria and 10% of Australia's total fuel needs. The refinery can process up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day, according to the company.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen told public broadcaster ABC that the main impact at this stage appeared to be on petrol production, while diesel and jet fuel were still being produced at reduced levels as a safety precaution.

"I'm sure petrol production will continue, but it may be impacted for some time obviously," the minister said, calling the fire "not great timing."

He said the fire appeared to be an accident and that there would be an investigation.

The disruption comes as Australia is already facing pressure on fuel supplies linked to the war in the Middle East.

Photo: EPA