Date: 22 March 2026
Weekly Fuel Price Report: 15 March – 21 March 2026
Australian motorists have faced significant pressure at the bowser this week, with petrol and diesel prices climbing sharply across almost every major metropolitan and regional centre. Our weekly analysis indicates that the downward trend observed in previous months has been firmly reversed, as global supply constraints and local market factors continue to impact the retail price of fuel.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Diesel Spike: Diesel prices have seen the most dramatic increases, with many capital cities recording jumps of over 25 cents per litre (cpl) in just seven days.
- Unleaded Volatility: Regular Unleaded 91 (U91) and E10 prices have risen by an average of 5% to 8% nationally, as the price cycle enters a steep upward phase.
- Premium Grades: Premium 95 and 98 fuels have followed the upward trend, with national averages now sitting well above the $2.50 per litre mark.
- Stable Outliers: E85 remains the only fuel type showing price stability across most jurisdictions, providing a rare point of consistency for compatible vehicles.
- Regional Impact: Regional hubs like Toowoomba and the Central Coast are experiencing price hikes similar to capital cities, with diesel prices now exceeding 277 cpl in these areas.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of Regular Unleaded 91 (U91) prices across Australia's capital cities for the period ending 21 March 2026. Prices are shown in cents per litre (cpl).
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Price Change | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | 239.78 | +13.64 | 5.86% | Rising |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | 235.14 | +19.85 | 8.74% | Rising |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | 234.05 | +12.73 | 5.57% | Rising |
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | 233.88 | +13.29 | 5.80% | Rising |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | 233.46 | +17.51 | 7.83% | Rising |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | 233.30 | +16.34 | 7.21% | Rising |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | 233.07 | +13.50 | 5.92% | Rising |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | 230.32 | +15.91 | 7.20% | Rising |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
This table outlines the national average price trends across all major fuel types. The substantial rise in diesel (DSL) and Premium Diesel (PDSL) is particularly noteworthy for transport and logistics operators.
| Fuel Type | National Average | Overall Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel (DSL) | 275.58 cpl | Rising Strongly |
| Premium Diesel (PDSL) | 276.90 cpl | Rising Strongly |
| Premium 98 (P98) | 259.05 cpl | Rising |
| Premium 95 (P95) | 249.38 cpl | Rising |
| Unleaded 91 (U91) | 233.95 cpl | Rising |
| E10 | 230.49 cpl | Rising |
| E85 | 229.73 cpl | Stable |
Looking Ahead
As we move into late March and early April, the outlook for fuel prices remains challenging for the average consumer. Based on current market movements, we anticipate the following:
- Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane: These cities are currently in the middle of a price hike. Expect prices to peak within the next 7 to 10 days before any potential softening. Motorists are advised to fill up immediately if they find prices below the current city average.
- Adelaide and Perth: These markets continue to show high volatility. Perth's weekly cycle remains the best opportunity for savings, provided motorists time their fuelling for the low point of the cycle.
- Diesel Outlook: Unfortunately, there is little relief in sight for diesel users. With the national average now exceeding 275 cpl, prices are expected to remain elevated for at least the next 3 to 4 weeks due to sustained global demand and restricted refinery output.
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.
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. In a week where prices have risen by as much as 28 cpl in some regions, being able to identify the retailers who are slower to increase their prices can result in savings of over $15 on a standard 60-litre tank.
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 https://fuelradar.com.au/map for desktop planning. Whether you are commuting to the city centre or planning a regional trip, checking the latest data is the most effective way to optimise your spending.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up!
Conclusion
The week ending 21 March 2026 has been one of the most expensive periods for Australian drivers in recent memory. With the trend firmly set to "Rising" across almost all fuel categories, it is more important than ever to monitor prices closely and plan your fuelling stops to avoid the peak of the retail cycle. We will continue to analyse the market and provide updates as the situation evolves.
