Feeling the pinch at the petrol pump? You’re not alone. With prices rising and talk of fuel caps, Lucy and Kel spoke with Professor Hussein Dia from Swinburne University of Technology to unpack what’s really happening behind the stress.

1. The Bottom Line: Don’t Panic

Despite rising costs driven by tensions in the Middle East, Professor Dia is clear: there’s no need to panic. Prices are higher, yes—but oil supply remains stable. What we’re seeing is cost pressure, not a supply collapse.

2. Avoid the “Toilet Paper” Effect

Professor Dia noted that fuel demand has jumped by 300–400% in some areas as people rush to buy.

The reality: panic buying creates the very shortages we fear. A week’s supply at a station can run out in just two days when everyone fills up at once.

The advice: only buy what you actually need.

3. Five Practical Ways to Save Fuel Today

While markets settle, you can “pinch back” with these simple habits:

Drive smoothly: Avoid sharp acceleration and heavy braking.

Slow down: A lower speed means better fuel economy.

Plan your trips: Combine errands into one outing to reduce starts.

Travel smart: Catch a train or tram—they run on electricity, not imported oil.

Work from home: Even a few remote days a week can cut fuel costs significantly.

4. Looking Forward: Australia’s Resilience

Australia currently imports 80–90% of its liquid fuel. Professor Dia believes the long-term answer lies in electrification—moving toward electric vehicles and renewable energy gives us control over our own power and shields us from global shocks.

Is a Fuel Cap Coming?

“We’re not there yet,” says Professor Dia. Ships are still arriving, and the government has contingency plans in place. The world may feel a bit topsy-turvy, but we’ll get through this together as a community.

Missed the chat? Watch the full highlight with Professor Hussein Dia here:

You could also listen back on the podcast here: DON’T PANIC — Prof Hussein Dia on Fuel Prices! PLUS: Garage Escapes, Stuck Listeners & Dream Hair Days