Weekly Fuel Report: 16 March 2026 to 22 March 2026
Weekly Fuel Price Update
Australian motorists have faced significant upward pressure at the bowser this week, with prices for all major fuel types trending sharply higher across the nation. The period ending 22 March 2026 saw substantial increases, particularly in the diesel market where prices jumped by nearly 10 per cent in several jurisdictions. As the global energy market continues to fluctuate, the local retail sector has reflected these wholesale movements with rapid adjustments at the pump. Our latest data indicates that the price cycle is currently in a rising phase across most capital cities, making it a challenging period for household budgets.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Sydney: Average Unleaded 91 prices rose by 14.64 cpl to 236.04 cpl. Prices are expected to continue rising over the coming week.
- Melbourne: The average for U91 sits at 233.41 cpl, a 6.04% increase. Melbourne remains one of the cheaper capitals but is currently on an upward trajectory.
- Adelaide: Motorists saw a sharp spike of 21.65 cpl for U91, bringing the average to 237.02 cpl as the city enters a new price cycle.
- Diesel: Diesel prices have surged nationally, with the national average now at 280.04 cpl. Hobart and Darwin saw some of the highest increases, exceeding 10% in a single week.
- Premium Fuels: Premium 98 has reached a national average of 261.62 cpl, with Darwin recorded as the most expensive city at 273.49 cpl.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of Unleaded 91 (U91) prices across Australia’s capital cities for the week ending 22 March 2026.
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Min Price | Max Price | Price Change | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | 236.04 cpl | 229.67 cpl | 244.31 cpl | 14.64 cpl | 6.37% | Rising |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | 233.41 cpl | 226.79 cpl | 240.48 cpl | 13.69 cpl | 6.04% | Rising |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | 235.09 cpl | 228.85 cpl | 242.24 cpl | 13.39 cpl | 5.85% | Rising |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | 238.15 cpl | 228.67 cpl | 245.57 cpl | 16.90 cpl | 7.39% | Rising |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | 237.02 cpl | 227.00 cpl | 248.65 cpl | 21.65 cpl | 9.54% | Rising |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | 238.28 cpl | 227.27 cpl | 249.16 cpl | 21.89 cpl | 9.63% | Rising |
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | 242.14 cpl | 235.22 cpl | 249.24 cpl | 14.02 cpl | 5.96% | Rising |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | 235.93 cpl | 229.12 cpl | 244.53 cpl | 15.41 cpl | 6.73% | Rising |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
National averages show a consistent rise across all fuel categories. Diesel and Premium Diesel have experienced the most aggressive price hikes this week.
| Fuel Type | National Average Price | Cheapest City | Cheapest Price | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 | 236.54 cpl | Geelong | 233.05 cpl | Rising |
| E10 | 233.06 cpl | Melbourne | 230.40 cpl | Rising |
| Diesel | 280.04 cpl | Melbourne | 274.87 cpl | Rising |
| Premium Diesel | 280.74 cpl | Darwin | 268.50 cpl | Rising |
| Premium 95 | 251.98 cpl | Geelong | 246.94 cpl | Rising |
| Premium 98 | 261.62 cpl | Geelong | 256.89 cpl | Rising |
| E85 | 229.82 cpl | Melbourne | 228.73 cpl | Stable |
Looking Ahead
Motorists should prepare for continued volatility over the next 3 to 4 weeks. In Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, we are currently in the rising phase of the price cycle. It is unlikely we will see a significant "discount" period until the second week of April. Perth’s weekly cycle continues to see sharp peaks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so fuelling up on Monday remains the best strategy for Western Australian drivers.
For Adelaide and regional centres, the rapid increase in diesel prices is expected to plateau shortly, though no significant decrease is forecast before mid-April. We advise drivers to monitor prices closely and fill up when they recognise a station that has not yet adjusted its prices to the new market highs.
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. By providing transparency in a volatile market, we help you analyse the latest trends so you can recognise the best time to visit the service centre.
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. Whether you are fuelling a small car or a large commercial vehicle, the ability to find a lower price per litre can result in substantial savings over the course of the year.
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. Our data is meticulously updated to ensure you have the most accurate information available before you head out on the road.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Don't let high petrol prices dictate your budget; take control with real-time data at your fingertips.
Conclusion
The past week has been one of the most expensive periods for Australian drivers in recent months. With the national average for U91 reaching 236.54 cpl and diesel surpassing 280.00 cpl, it is more important than ever to use tools like FuelRadar to find the best possible price. We will continue to monitor the markets and provide updates as the situation evolves.
