New Feature in Service Victoria App to Track Fuel Prices
The Victorian government has introduced a new feature within the Service Victoria app, aimed at helping drivers find the most affordable fuel options. This initiative is part of the state’s “Fair Fuel Plan” and represents a significant step towards greater transparency in fuel pricing.
The feature, called Servo Saver, allows users to see which service stations are charging the highest and lowest prices for fuel in real-time. The app now highlights the most expensive option with a red label that includes the word “highest,” while the cheapest price is marked in green with the word “lowest.” This visual distinction helps drivers make informed decisions quickly.
Real-Time Data from Over 1200 Retailers
Servo Saver uses live data from more than 1200 fuel retailers across the state, providing up-to-the-minute information on fuel prices. The app was launched in early March and requires fuel retailers to set their prices for the following day by 2 p.m. This ensures that the data available to users is as current as possible.
However, the app has not been without its challenges. Reports have surfaced about glitches that have led to incorrect price listings. For instance, as of 8:30 a.m. today, Shell Hawthorn was listed as charging the highest price for unleaded 91 at $3.50 per litre, while the cheapest option was reported to be at the nearby 7Eleven Hawthorn Church at $2.18 per litre. Nine.com.au has reached out to Shell to confirm the accuracy of these figures.
Compliance and Penalties
To ensure the reliability of the data, the Victorian government has implemented strict rules for fuel retailers. Those who fail to comply with the app’s reporting requirements may face on-the-spot fines. This measure is intended to encourage accurate and timely reporting, which is essential for the success of the Servo Saver feature.
The government estimates that around 520,000 people use the Service Victoria app, highlighting the potential impact of this new feature on a large number of drivers. The introduction of Servo Saver marks the first phase of the Fair Fuel Plan, with the second phase expected to involve setting maximum prices for 24-hour periods.
Future Steps and Public Response
While the initial response to the app has been positive, there have been concerns about the accuracy of the data and the effectiveness of the enforcement measures. Some critics argue that the government needs to do more to ensure that all fuel retailers adhere to the rules.
The Fair Fuel Plan is seen as a proactive approach to addressing rising fuel costs and ensuring fair competition among service stations. As the app continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor its performance and address any issues that arise.
How to Access the App
For those interested in using the Service Victoria app, it can be downloaded via Apple or Google Play. Users can also make the app their preferred source on Google by ticking a box on the platform. Subscribers can sign up for the breaking news newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments.
