Billionaire Adrian Portelli has suggested that the government should cover police expenses should disorder occur at his newly opened petrol station in Melbourne, where he is offering unleaded fuel for $1 per litre to members of his rewards program, LMCT+. The opening of the Preston LMCT+ station this morning attracted a queue of around 20 vehicles.
Only members can take advantage of this promotion, with Portelli emphasising that the offer aims to manage crowd control. He clarified that the station also sells diesel and premium 98 fuel at wholesale prices. Authorities have agreed to monitor the situation and respond to any potential issues, while Portelli has appointed private traffic management to assist.
During an Instagram update, Portelli expressed frustration regarding press inquiries about police costs, pointing out that he has already contributed over $100 million in taxes, suggesting those funds ought to be used effectively instead of on trivial matters. He lamented the mismanagement of tax funds in issues he deems less crucial than providing affordable fuel to the public.
Portelli characterised this fuel initiative as a marketing effort and a way to give back to the community. Anticipating a “soft launch,” he hopes to keep crowds manageable and noted that the system is deliberately calibrated to avoid overrun. He stated that the event has proceeded without significant disruptions thus far and has been positively received by members and attendees.
Despite the relatively peaceful start, police are investigating a separate incident involving reckless driving near the petrol station, which occurred the previous evening. Portelli’s Preston site marks the first of what he plans to be 50 petrol stations across the country, revealing that he has secured a substantial supply of fuel to distribute among his members.
Notably, reactions from the public at the station have been overwhelmingly positive, with patrons expressing gratitude for the price reduction, reinforcing Portelli’s desire to challenge the status quo in the fuel market.