Weekly Fuel Report: Friday, 20 March 2026
Weekly Fuel Price Report: 13 March 2026 – 19 March 2026
Motorists across Australia have faced a challenging week at the bowser, with fuel prices recording significant increases in every major capital city and regional centre. The period ending 19 March saw a sharp upward trajectory in prices, particularly for diesel and premium fuels, as global market volatility continues to impact local retail figures. Our latest data indicates that the price cycle is currently in a rising phase across most of the eastern seaboard, while northern and western markets also experienced notable jumps.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Rising Trends: Regular unleaded (U91) prices have risen by an average of 10 to 19 cents per litre (cpl) across all monitored locations, with no signs of an immediate peak.
- Diesel Surge: Diesel (DSL) has seen the most dramatic increases this week, with some regions like Geelong recording a massive 15.22% jump in price.
- Capital City Highs: Darwin remains the most expensive capital for U91, averaging 235.32 cpl, while Perth has climbed to nearly 230 cpl.
- E85 Stability: In a rare exception to the trend, E85 prices remained stable at an average of 229.9 cpl across most jurisdictions.
- Cycle Position: Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are currently in the middle of a price hike, meaning motorists should look to fill up immediately if they find any remaining stock at older, lower prices.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of Unleaded 91 prices across Australian capital cities for the week ending 19 March 2026.
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Price Change (cpl) | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | 228.08 cpl | +13.24 | 6.02% | Rising |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | 225.56 cpl | +9.91 | 4.49% | Rising |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | 227.53 cpl | +11.20 | 5.07% | Rising |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | 229.86 cpl | +13.77 | 6.07% | Rising |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | 227.41 cpl | +18.70 | 8.52% | Rising |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | 228.93 cpl | +15.34 | 6.91% | Rising |
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | 235.32 cpl | +12.44 | 5.42% | Rising |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | 227.40 cpl | +12.08 | 5.49% | Rising |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
National averages show a broad-based increase across almost all fuel categories, with premium fuels and diesel leading the surge.
| Fuel Type | National Average Price | General Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 (U91) | 228.35 cpl | Rising |
| Ethanol 10 (E10) | 224.74 cpl | Rising |
| Premium 95 (P95) | 243.75 cpl | Rising |
| Premium 98 (P98) | 253.46 cpl | Rising |
| Diesel (DSL) | 266.08 cpl | Sharply Rising |
| Premium Diesel (PDSL) | 268.05 cpl | Sharply Rising |
| E85 | 229.73 cpl | Stable |
Looking Ahead
As we look toward the final week of March, we expect the current rising cycle to continue before prices stabilise at their new peaks. In Sydney and Melbourne, the peak may still be several days away, meaning average prices could exceed 235 cpl for regular unleaded before any downward movement begins.
Adelaide and Perth, which often experience more volatile cycles, are likely to see prices remain high through the weekend. Regional areas, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales, are currently trailing the capital city hikes but are expected to see significant increases as new, more expensive stock is delivered to service stations. Motorists are advised to monitor prices closely and use tools to find the cheapest available fuel before the full weight of the current hike is felt.
Save Money with FuelRadar
With fuel prices constantly fluctuating, finding the best deal in your area can save you significant money over time. The FuelRadar app is your essential tool for locating the cheapest fuel prices in your neighbourhood, updated in real-time. Whether you are commuting to the city centre or traveling through regional Australia, knowing where to stop can save you upwards of 20 cents per litre.
FuelRadar's user-friendly interface allows you to quickly compare prices across different service stations, helping you make informed decisions before filling up. The app's map feature shows you exactly where to find the best deals, saving you both time and money. By identifying which stations have not yet raised their prices to match the current market peak, you can effectively bypass the worst of the weekly price hikes.
Available on both iOS and Android devices, FuelRadar puts the power to save in your hands. You can also access the service via our website at fuelradar.com.au/map for desktop planning. Our data is constantly refreshed to ensure you have the most accurate information at your fingertips, helping you recognise the best time and place to refuel.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Don't let the rising cost of petrol derail your budget when the best prices are just a tap away.
Conclusion
The past week has been one of the most expensive periods for Australian drivers in recent memory. With diesel prices pushing toward 270 cpl and unleaded fuels rising rapidly, it is more important than ever to be proactive about where you purchase your fuel. Stay informed, monitor the cycles, and always compare prices before you pull into a service station.
