Billions of Litres, Zero Compromise: Inside Banlaw’s Fuel Management Revolution

When it comes to managing high-value resources, fuel is one of the most significant costs faced by industries across mining, rail, agriculture, marine and heavy construction. Getting fuel management right isn’t just about logistics – it directly impacts safety, sustainability, and the bottom line.

To learn more, The Australian Mining Review spoke with Paul Skelton, Project Manager at Banlaw, to discuss how the company is redefining the future of Fuel Management Systems (FMS).

Q: What makes Banlaw’s FMS stand out from the competition?
Paul Skelton: “We deliver the world’s only true end-to-end fuel management system. That means hardware, software, infrastructure and support all work together seamlessly. Our systems don’t just track usage – they integrate security, accountability, and accuracy into every litre dispensed. That’s how our clients save millions of dollars while improving safety and environmental performance.”

Q: Banlaw is based in Newcastle, Australia. How do you deliver projects on a global scale?
Paul Skelton: “While our headquarters are in the Hunter Valley – the industrial heart of NSW – our reach is worldwide. We’ve built an international network of distributors, repairers and technology partners who allow us to deliver and support projects in over 30 countries. Whether it’s a mine site in Africa, an island in Papua New Guinea, or a rail hub in Malaysia, we can tailor a localised solution that meets global standards.”

Q: What do clients value most when implementing a Banlaw system?
Paul Skelton: “Turnkey delivery is a big factor. Many of our clients are operating in high-pressure environments where downtime is costly. We provide end-to-end solutions – from designing and installing the fuel infrastructure to training staff and providing ongoing technical support. Clients know they can rely on us for a complete solution, not just a product.”

Q: What kind of impact do these systems have in real-world operations?
Paul Skelton: “Right now, Banlaw systems are managing over a billion litres of fuel every month across 33 countries. The efficiencies add up quickly – operators see reduced wastage, better cost control, and safer handling of fuels and fluids. Our technology gives them control, confidence and measurable returns.”

That global capability was recently demonstrated across three very different projects.

“In Madagascar, we partnered with our trusted technology partner in South Africa to secure fuel deliveries and usage on site. At Lihir, we worked closely with the customer’s team to overcome the logistical challenges of mobilising staff and equipment across multiple visas and island entries – and today that system is supported remotely by our 24/7 Helpdesk in NSW. Meanwhile at Cadia, we pivoted from using our own people to engaging trusted local contractors to complete installation and commissioning. Each project required a unique execution strategy, but the result was the same: a fully operational Banlaw FMS tailored to the client’s needs.”

With more than 40 years of experience, Banlaw continues to lead the way in fluid intelligence. Its Fuel Management Systems are not just about moving fuel, but about transforming the way industries manage their most critical resources. As Skelton puts it: “It’s about delivering smarter, safer, and more sustainable outcomes – wherever in the world our clients operate.”