The National Measurement Institute (NMI) will commence a national audit into fuel pump accuracy in the lead up to the Easter long weekend.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said it’s important Australian consumers get what they pay for when they buy products by weight, volume or number.

“The Morrison Government is putting fuel retailers on notice, and they can expect a rigorous but fair approach during the inspections conducted by NMI,” Minister Andrews said.

“Australian consumers need to be confident they’re getting what they pay for at the fuel pump, and we are committed to ensuring this confidence is upheld and maintained.

“While most businesses want to do the right thing, there are penalties for businesses that breach the law.”

The National Measurement Institute can issue infringement notices with fines of $1050 per offence. If the case is serious enough to warrant prosecution, the maximum fines are $210,000 per offence as a company or $42,000 per offence as an individual.

NMI’s intensive, week-long, national audit program will run from 1 to 5 April and include audits of 250 retail fuel outlets and testing of 1000 fuel pumps across the country.

For more information or to report a suspected breach of the rules, contact the national trade measurement hotline on 1300 686 664 or infotm [at] measurement.gov

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070