The Ultimate Guide to Diesel Fuel Tank Compliance in Australia
Introduction
Why diesel fuel tank compliance matters in Australia
In Australia, the safe and legal storage of diesel fuel hinges on strict compliance with industry regulations. Whether you’re operating a large-scale farm, managing a civil construction site or running a transport fleet, using a compliant diesel fuel tank protects your people, property and business from serious risk.
Improper diesel fuel storage can lead to serious risks like fire hazards, fuel contamination, environmental pollution and heavy penalties for non-compliance. These risks not only endanger safety but also lead to financial losses and reputational damage.
In this blog, we explore the key regulations and Australian Standards that apply to diesel fuel tanks, including AS1940, installation guidelines and what to look for when searching for diesel tanks for sale.
1. What Is Diesel Fuel Tank Compliance and Why It Matters
Diesel fuel tank compliance refers to meeting all applicable Australian safety, environmental, and legal standards when storing or transporting diesel. These regulations are in place to:
• Minimise the risk of leaks, fires, and environmental damage
• Ensure safe handling for workers
• Prevent costly fines or insurance issues due to non-compliance
Compliance is essential for any business storing large volumes of diesel fuel. It begins with choosing the right tank and following the right process for handling, installation and maintenance.
2. Understanding AS1940 and Diesel Fuel Storage Standards
The key detail you need to know is AS1940.
What is AS1940?
AS1940:2017 is the Australian Standard that governs the storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids, including diesel. Although diesel is less flammable than petrol and gasoline, diesel can still burn and explode if exposed to heat, sparks, or flame.
Key AS1940 Requirements for Diesel Tanks:
- Secondary containment (e.g. self-bunding) to prevent spills
- Safe tank placement and setbacks from buildings or boundaries
- Appropriate labelling and hazard signage
- Fire protection and spill response readiness
- Tank construction using certified, durable materials
In addition to AS1940, diesel tank users must comply with state-based Dangerous Goods legislation and EPA guidelines. These regulations vary slightly by state, but generally, they cover licensing requirements for fuel storage, site notification to environmental authorities, limits on fuel quantities, and mandatory safety features such as spill containment, signage and emergency response procedures. Operators must also ensure that tanks are registered where required and undergo periodic inspections or audits to maintain compliance.
3. Types of Diesel Fuel Tanks and Their Compliance Features
Understanding the different types of diesel fuel tanks for sale is essential when selecting one for your operation. Different tanks have different builds, compliance requirements, and uses. The different types include:
- Self-Bunded Diesel Fuel Tanks
These tanks have a built-in containment layer (a ‘tank within a tank’), making them compliant with AS1940 without requiring external bunds. They’re ideal for farms, mines, and mobile operations. Read more for the Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Self-Bunded Fuel Tanks. - Portable Diesel Tanks
Designed for transport, these require compliance with fuel transport standards and must include features like anti-spill valves, vents, and correct labelling. - Above-Ground vs Underground Tanks
Above-ground tanks are easier to inspect and maintain. Underground diesel tanks may have different inspection and leak prevention obligations under EPA laws.
4. Compliance Considerations for Installation and Site Setup
Even a compliant tank can become a hazard if it’s installed incorrectly. Proper installation is essential not only for compliance but for ensuring long-term safety, performance, and ease of maintenance. Errors in setup, like incorrect placement, lack of spill containment, or poor site preparation, can lead to environmental damage, operational delays, or legal consequences. So, it’s important to keep in mind the following
- Maintain a minimum setback between tanks and nearby structures or ignition sources
- Use a stable, non-combustible foundation
- Install fire extinguishers and ignition controls
- Restrict access with fencing or locks
- Ensure spill containment through bunding or drainage
5. Maintenance Requirements for Diesel Fuel Tanks
Compliance doesn’t end after installation. It should be an ongoing responsibility. Did you know that even a compliant tank can become a hazard if it’s installed incorrectly?
Proper installation is essential for ensuring long-term safety, performance and ease of maintenance. Errors in setup, such as incorrect placement, lack of spill containment, or poor site preparation, can lead to environmental damage, operational delays, or legal consequences.
Best practice should include:
- Checking for rust, dents, or corrosion to avoid structural weaknesses
- Inspecting bunds, seals, and overflow systems for integrity and function
- Cleaning filters and fuel lines to maintain flow efficiency and avoid blockages
- Monitoring fuel levels and testing for water, sludge, or microbial growth
- Verifying venting and pressure systems are operational
- Keeping a detailed maintenance log, including inspection dates, issues found, and corrective actions taken
We recommend implementing routine maintenance schedules, such as monthly visual checks and annual professional inspections, so you can be sure all systems remain compliant and operational.
6. Buying Diesel Fuel Tanks for Sale: What to Look For
If you’re browsing diesel tanks for sale, here are some key compliance features to check for:
- AS1940 Certification – Indicates the tank meets Australia’s national standard for the safe storage of combustible liquids.
- Self-bunded design for spill containment – Incorporates a tank within a tank to prevent spills and protect against environmental hazards.
- Lockable, tamper-proof fittings – Enhances site security by preventing unauthorised access or fuel theft.
- Venting and overflow protection – Regulates internal pressure and prevents dangerous fuel overflows during filling or high-temperature conditions.
- Weatherproof coating for outdoor durability – Protects the tank against corrosion, UV damage, and harsh weather conditions, extending its lifespan.
- Australian manufacturing standards and warranty – Assures buyers of product quality, reliability and after-sales support that is aligned with local conditions and regulations.
Choosing the cheapest tank may cost you more in the long run if it fails to meet compliance, risks downtime or leads to fines. Check our blog on Diesel Tanks: What to Look for Before You Buy
7. Legal Risks and Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliant diesel storage can result in:
- Fines from state regulators (ranging from $10,000 to $250,000, depending on severity)
- Environmental clean-up costs
- Insurance claims being denied
- Site shutdowns or legal action in case of fire or injury
Investing in a compliant diesel tank is far more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of a breach.
8. How Durotank Ensures Diesel Fuel Tank Compliance
At Durotank, every fuel tank is designed and built in Australia with compliance in mind. Our range of diesel fuel tanks for sale includes self-bunded, transportable and custom tanks that meet AS1940 and other Australian standards.
Why Durotank?
- Locally manufactured in Australia – Our tanks are built locally, ensuring quicker delivery, tailored solutions, and better alignment with Australian conditions and standards. Find out more on Why Buy Australian Fuel Storage Tanks.
- AS1940-compliant designs – All Durotank fuel tanks are designed to meet or exceed the AS1940 standard for safe diesel storage and handling.
- High-quality steel construction – Built using premium-grade steel for durability, longevity, and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
- Custom configurations to suit your site – We offer bespoke designs to meet specific operational, spatial, and compliance requirements.
- Expert support on installation and regulations – Our team provides guidance on compliance, safe setup, and maintenance to help you stay within legal and operational guidelines.
Whether you’re in mining, agriculture, transport or construction, we have a compliant diesel storage solution to suit your operation.
Stay Safe, Stay Compliant
Meeting Australia’s diesel storage standards doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing a certified tank, following site guidelines and conducting regular maintenance, you’ll ensure your diesel fuel system is safe, efficient, and legally sound.
Looking for diesel fuel tanks for sale?
Explore Durotank’s full range of compliant, Australian-made diesel tanks or get in touch on 1300 829 802 for expert guidance on tank selection and site compliance.
If you store diesel on a farm, a mine site, a civil project or a transport depot, AS1940 is the…
When you are comparing steel fuel tanks, they can look remarkably similar on paper. They may have the same capacity,…
Search this question online and you will drown in British heating oil advice. OFTEC guidance, Environment Agency rules, Scottish EPA…
Buying a diesel tank looks simple until you start comparing them. Capacities range from a few hundred litres to six…
AdBlue has become a non-negotiable part of running a modern diesel fleet. Almost every truck, tractor, generator and piece of…
Diesel prices in Australia have hit record levels in 2026. Geopolitical disruption has pushed per-litre costs to their highest point…
When stored diesel is left unmanaged, the fuel sitting in your tank slowly changes. Water creeps in, sludge forms, and…
My experience with Durotank was exceptional from start to completion.
Emily was patient with us from the start - we took a while to make our decision, but she was always ready to help. She proactively addressed all enquiries and offered comprehensive support. No pressure, just good service.
Furthermore, Durotank was highly accommodating when we requested custom signage. It turned out great and looked fantastic.
I highly recommend Durotank to any organisation seeking a seamless, efficient, and thoroughly professional supplier for diesel tank requirements.
Joe Valesini - AUS Inds Customer Relationship Manager Motion
We had a great experience working with Durotank on our order for a 2,400L water cart trailer, set up for firefighting and tree watering. Their team was responsive throughout the process and delivered exactly what we needed on schedule, despite a very tight timeframe. The build quality is excellent - it’s clear a lot of care and expertise went into the manufacturing. We also value being able to support an Australian-made company and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Durotank for both their product quality and service.
Joel Courtney – APMS Operations
We considered many other brands of diesel tank but quickly settled on Durotank - they ticked all the boxes. An Australian-made, self bunded quality tank with the ability to load and transport on-site whilst full is a winner.
The team communicated professionally with us regarding modifications and build timing. We will certainly use Durotank again and would confidently recommend them to others.
Andrew Reeves, Ethtec
We had a great experience working with Durotank in purchasing our service trailer, from the enquiry stage to the delivery date the Durotank team were pleasant and very professional. Emily from the sales team answered any and all questions we had about specs and options, working with us to meet expectations and budget limitations. The production team kept us well informed of build schedule and approximate delivery dates. Overall we highly recommend the Durotank team if your looking for a service trailer, value for money is second to none and the quality is top notch.
Aaron Asquith - Leading Hand - Rental Komatsu Australia, Truganina Branch VIC
We purchased Durotank’s 2400 Litre poly water trailer with fire-fighter pump and hose reel, plus optional dribble bar and batter sprays attached.
Our property, Duxton Farm, borders the Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. Because of this, early season burning is extremely important to prevent uncontrollable bushfires later in the dry season. The trailer has been an invaluable asset to fire control – always full and ready to go when the call comes.
We’ve found it to be well balanced, empty or full, with the baffle ball system effectively controlling surge. We have had no issues with set-up, towing it with either a Landcruiser or Hilux.
Overall, we’re extremely happy with our purchase and the support from the Durotank team. We’ll be back.
Bruce Connolly, Northern Regional Manager, Duxton Farms
I purchased a Poly Tank Fuel Trailer from DUROTANK in April 2018. DUROTANK builds one of the best fuel trailers I have ever used. The build quality, engineering and attention to detail is unreal. The fuel trailer is rock solid, it tracks extremely well full of fuel at 100km/hr and its road worthy. All of the fittings are hoses are high quality hydraulic hose and crimped fittings so there are no leaks. The Durotank team is very easy to deal with and more than happy to help with any enquiries. The staff are friendly and it is a pleasure to do business with them. I’d buy another one in a heartbeat, that’s for sure
Ben Harris – AB Contract Farming
The Duro Cubes are going extremely well! My guys are very happy with them. Having them already saved us on oil transport on at least 2 occasions so far and has also allowed us to restructure our oil work days and use out of hours oil deliveries to make more efficient use of the time on site.
Field Supervisor, Electricity Distributor (AUSGRID)
The fuel trailer I purchased from DUROTANK is well designed to withstand the harsh mining environment I work in, with no compromise to efficient and reliable fast fuel delivery
Brad Black – Hardrock Blasting Services
I would like to recommend Durotank to anyone that is considering their products. From first enquiry to after the product was delivered the customer experience was flawless.
Nick Dunlop – Kelton Rentals
As a business owner I would highly recommend DUROTANK to any person who is serious about saving money, purchasing and storing their own fuel in bulk, particularly in today’s challenging economic times. DUROTANK supplied us an excellent quality Australian made fuel tank built to the specs that suited out business. Our staff love how easy it is to use and how much time it saves refuelling each week. We purchased the Smartfill System with it and its definitely a worthwhile investment both for use and fuel management. The aftersales service from DUROTANK has been outstanding.
Tony Grace – Lachlan Valley
The supply process from quotation to order placement, being kept informed of manufacturing process and delivery date and final delivery was seamless. I really appreciated the proactive approach to driving a positive Customer Experience. I couldn’t fault the product or service at all.
Peter – Meadows Family Restaurants
All our fuel trailers and on site tanks are supplied by Durotank which are built with strength and quality and always delivered on time, helpful and friendly staff, won’t get better.
