THOUSANDS of Tasmanians have put their name to a petition urging the consumer watchdog to investigate the state's petrol costs, but one federal MP says customer action will ultimately change pricing behaviour.
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The RACT has sent the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission a petition of 5000 signatures calling for Tasmania to be used as a test site for a price probe.
ACCC chairman Rob Sims has indicated the watchdog would produce a study into price drivers in three regional areas this year, with the first site announced next month.
RACT chief executive Harvey Lennon, as well as state and federal MPs, have written to Mr Sims urging him to select Tasmania.
"We are not only very pleased with the support shown for the petition, but pleased that Tasmanians are taking the issue so very seriously and are prepared to put their name to a call for action," Mr Lennon said.
"It's very important now that the ACCC have indicated an interest in focusing on regional petrol prices that Tasmania has its hand up and invites the ACCC to come down and have a look at petrol prices," he said.
Mr Lennon said if Tasmania was successful in its bid to have prices scrutinised, motorists should experience a real benefit.
"This exercise is going to be futile unless it does bring some due process on those involved in the wholesale and retailing of petrol in this state," he said.
Bass Liberal MHR Andrew Nikolic said Tasmania was experiencing price gouging, and consumer behaviour was a big factor.
"We should support the independents rather than reinforce what is a lack of desire to compete by virtue of our behaviour," he said.
"Ultimately, consumer action changes pricing behaviour."
Mr Nikolic said better pricing scrutiny and adherence to pricing legislation was needed.