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Community facilities | March 24, 2016

CostWatch to hear about regional fuel pricing

Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is encouraging people to contact the newly launched CostWatch initiative about high fuel pricing pricing across the Lowan electorate.

“Right across the Lowan electorate people are sick of putting up with unfair fuel prices in our regional centres. Prices in Horsham are much higher than surrounding smaller communities,” Ms Kealy said.

“I have contacted the ACCC on a number of occasions to relay local concerns.

“It has been reiterated to me by the ACCC that they are aware of the difficulty in identifying documented evidence, but takes specific allegations of anti-competitive behaviour very seriously.

“If anyone has information that may assist in determining a case of potential illegal market conduct, I encourage them to contact the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502 in the first instance.

Emma Kealy MP said the CostWatch project aims to uncover cost-of-living issues by Victorian families, get households and businesses talking, and most importantly use people power to reduce unnecessary costs.

“The Andrews Labor Government keeps promising to ease the cost of living pressures, but empty promises equal empty wallets,” Ms Kealy said.

“There is no question that cost-of-living pressures such as high fuel prices and excessive household electricity and gas increases are taking their toll on households and families. These are on top of the impacts of the current dry seasonal conditions and over 12,000 full time job losses in North West Victoria, reducing the amount of money people have to spend.

“Whether it is utility bills, transport or health costs, the cost of living is rising sharply and it is time to take action,” she said.

The Liberal National Coalition wants to hear directly from Victorians and over the coming months they will take the CostWatch initiative around the State.

For more information, and to share your story or provide feedback about cost of living pressures, visit CostWatch.com.au or contact Emma Kealy via [email protected] or in writing to PO Box 41, Horsham 3402.