IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER PETROL THEFT IS A SERIOUS CRIME: AACS

July 16, 2013

The Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has reinforced the fact that petrol theft is a crime that not only causes service station operators considerable financial loss but also triggers serious public safety concerns.

AACS CEO Jeff Rogut said petrol theft is a major issue for service stations and convenience stores all over the country.

“Intentional petrol theft costs the convenience industry upwards of $30 million annually, which obviously has a significant impact on the many small business people in the community who rely on these stores for their livelihood,” Mr Rogut explained.

“Petrol theft is a crime which can cost individual stores tens of thousands of dollars in lost profit each year. There’s also the potential for dire safety consequences that can result from quick escapes by motorists after they have committed the crime.

“The message from convenience stores and service station operators is clear: if you steal petrol we will be doing all we can to ensure that you’re caught and that you’re prosecuted,” Mr Rogut said.

The installation of pre-paid petrol systems are often cited as a potential solution to the issue from those without first hand experience in the industry. However, Mr Rogut said pre-paid petrol systems are unsuitable as a blanket solution.

“Pre-paid systems are at odds with the key offering of convenience stores and these stores shouldn’t have to jeopardise their service offering by inconveniencing their customers. Additionally, it is unreasonable to inconvenience the majority of customers who do the right thing,” Mr Rogut said.

“There are numerous inconveniences associated with mandatory pre-paid systems. Customers may have to make multiple trips to the counter if they underestimate the petrol they require. They may have to return to the store to purchase additional items, adding to congestion during busy periods.”

Mr Rogut said the introduction of fines similar to speeding fines or those given to those caught shop lifting and loss of licence demerit points would also be an effective in reducing the incidence of drive-offs.

Number plate recognition systems, already in use in many service stations, CCTV to capture images of those that steal petrol, vigilance by other motorists when filling up and continued partnerships with law enforcement are other ongoing potential solutions to the problem.