PHOTO: • Police warn farmers to be vigilant around their fuel storage.
With the current crisis in fuel availability, the Rural Crime Prevention Team are warning the public (especially those on farm and in remote areas) to lock up their fuel supplies following reports of stolen fuel across the region.
An investigation is currently underway after Police were notified of 800 litres of diesel being stolen at a property in the central west between Sunday 22 February and Sunday 1 March, 2026.
Acting State Rural Crime Coordinator, Detective Acting Inspector Andrew Maclean said the Rural Crime Prevention Team are anticipating that with the rise in the cost of fuel, an increase in fuel theft is likely to occur.
“Landholders are asked to remain vigilant around their on-farm fuel storage and police encourage installing surveillance cameras, securing bowser handles with padlocks, and keeping detailed records of all fuel usage using the NSW Police Fuel theft report template,” Inspector McLean said.
“The Rural Crime Prevention Team are imploring victims of fuel theft to report every instance of fuel theft from farms and timely reporting allows police to investigate reports and to monitor trends.
“Be aware of any vehicles that you may not recognise in your local community, or portable Ute back tanks, 44-gallon drums or shuttles on the back of vehicles or in trailers.”
Police are also urging anyone with information regarding the sale of fuel at discounted rates being conducted away from service stations and legitimate fuel distributors to come forward.
The Rural Crime Prevention Team is asking members of the community to report suspicious behaviour and to work together in communities to look out for each other.
They say a few simple steps can make a big difference:
- Lock fuel tanks and storage sheds
- Look to install motion‑activated lighting or cameras
- Keep machinery out of sight when possible
- Record serial numbers and mark equipment
- Report suspicious activity immediately.
For a fuel theft in progress or for incidents where vehicles are seen trespassing and hanging around on farm fuel storage facilities, call 000.
Non-urgent reports of suspicious activity regarding fuel theft or images or CCTV that may assist can be reported via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Fuel theft can be reported by calling your local Police Station or by calling the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.