A major fire erupted at Viva Energy’s Corio refinery in Geelong, Victoria — one of Australia’s two operational oil refineries. Residents were urgently advised to stay indoors due to smoke from the blaze.

The facility supplies approximately 50 percent of Victoria’s fuel and 10 percent of Australia’s, processing roughly 120,000 barrels of oil daily. It also produces hydrocarbon solvents, marine fuel oil, low aromatic fuel, avgas, bitumen, and high-quality plastic feedstock used for food packaging, medical equipment, and polymer banknotes.

The Country Fire Authority issued a watch and act for a large area of Geelong, instructing residents south of Refinery Road Corio to take shelter indoors immediately. Authorities reported the fire is located on Refinery Road, Corio, with smoke being blown toward Northern Geelong as wind patterns shift.

Residents were also advised to avoid roads to ensure emergency services can respond effectively. The Victoria Emergency website confirms the blaze remains uncontrolled and shows 10 vehicles responding to the incident.