Western Australia has invoked emergency powers to force fuel suppliers to disclose detailed supply chain information as the state grapples with shortages triggered by panic-buying following the war in Iran. The state government activated provisions under the Fuel, Energy and Power Resources Act after several companies failed to provide specific data on fuel shipments, according to a statement on Wednesday.

This marks the first time Western Australia has used these emergency provisions since their introduction. The move comes as Australia seeks to manage an ongoing fuel crisis that has seen consumers rush to fill their tanks amid geopolitical uncertainty. The state government's intervention aims to gain greater visibility into fuel distribution networks and prevent further shortages.

The emergency powers grant authorities the ability to compel fuel companies to provide real-time data on their operations. This unprecedented step highlights the severity of the situation and the government's determination to maintain fuel supply stability during a period of heightened global tensions.