Experts Explain the Triggers Behind Panic Buying
SYDNEY — Panic buying has resurfaced across Australia amid rising fears over fuel supply chains, according to experts from UNSW Business School. As global tensions escalate, long queues and heightened demand have been reported at petrol stations nationwide.
The phenomenon, reminiscent of behaviors seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, is driven by perceptions rather than actual shortages, says Professor Nitika Garg from the School of Marketing at UNSW Business School. Garg explains that fear and uncertainty trigger risk-averse actions in consumers.
Why Australians React Quickly to Supply Fears
Dr Timothy Neal, a Senior Lecturer at UNSW, notes that Australia’s sensitivity to panic buying is linked to its globalized economy and reliance on fuel imports. His research highlights that Australians quickly connect global events with local impacts, leading to swift consumer reactions.
Panic buying is further fuelled by social and traditional media, which amplify consumer behaviors, according to Neal. He emphasises that while panic buying often seems irrational, it can be a logical response when consumers perceive essential goods to be at risk.
Experts suggest that clear communication and monitoring of pricing can help mitigate panic buying, though the challenge is complex. Dr. Neal points out that belief in others’ panic can alone drive shortages, underscoring the difficulty in containing such behaviors.
The historical context of panic buying in Australia reveals patterns that can be traced back to past crises. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, similar behaviors were observed when consumers rushed to purchase essential items such as toilet paper and canned goods. This historical precedent suggests that Australians are particularly reactive to perceived threats, acting swiftly to secure their needs before shortages become a reality.
To address these recurring issues, it is crucial for both government and industry leaders to work collaboratively to ensure transparency and stability in supply chains. By doing so, they can help alleviate the triggers that lead to panic buying, fostering a more resilient consumer market.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 6:39 pm
