Australia is facing a shortage of critical lubricants. How do we stop everything grinding to a halt?

The problem shows how widespread the fallout from the enduring Middle East conflict is, with disruptions extending beyond fuel for transport

Prices for base oils, used to make lubricants, are rising sharply and supplies are disrupted, causing concern that Australia is facing a shortage of engine oil and other lubricants used to keep engines running.

While the most immediate effect on commuters could be the pricing and availability of a routine oil change, shortages would affect any sector that relies on combustion engines, including agriculture.

The problem shows how widespread the fallout from the enduring Middle East conflict is, with disruptions extending beyond transport fuel to other crude oil-derived products including everything from plastics to paint thinner .