Weekly Fuel Report: 16 March – 22 March 2026
Welcome to the FuelRadar weekly fuel report for the period of 16 March to 22 March 2026. This week, Australian motorists have faced significant upward pressure at the bowser, with petrol and diesel prices climbing sharply across every major capital city and regional centre. The market is currently characterised by a broad "Rising" trend as the latest price cycle takes hold, exacerbated by international supply constraints that have particularly impacted diesel costs.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Unleaded 91 (U91): Prices have surged nationally, with the national average now sitting at 236.54 cpl. Adelaide saw the most aggressive jump this week, increasing by 21.65 cpl (9.54%).
- Diesel (DSL): Diesel consumers are facing extreme volatility. National averages have hit 280.04 cpl, with many cities recording price hikes of over 25 cpl in a single week.
- Premium Grades: Premium 95 and 98 have followed the upward trajectory of U91, with national averages reaching 251.98 cpl and 261.62 cpl respectively.
- Regional Impact: Regional areas like Wollongong and Hobart are currently seeing some of the highest average prices for U91 in the country, both exceeding 238 cpl.
- Cycle Status: Most major capital cities are currently in the rising phase of the price cycle. We advise motorists to utilise real-time tracking to find retailers that have not yet adjusted their prices to the new peak.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a detailed breakdown of Unleaded 91 prices across Australia's capital cities for the week ending 22 March 2026. All prices are listed in cents per litre (cpl).
| 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 |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | 235.93 cpl | 229.12 cpl | 244.53 cpl | +15.41 cpl | 6.73% | 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 |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
This table summarises the national average price and the prevailing trend for various fuel types across Australia during the report period.
| Fuel Type | National Average Price | Cheapest City (Average) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 | 236.54 cpl | Geelong (233.05 cpl) | Rising |
| E10 Petrol | 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 |
Looking Ahead
As we analyse the data from the past week, it is evident that the price cycle is currently in a steep upward phase. For the next 3-4 weeks, we anticipate that prices in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane will likely reach their peak before beginning a slow descent. Motorists should be prepared for U91 prices to remain above the 240 cpl mark in many metropolitan areas before any relief is felt.
Diesel remains the primary concern for the Australian economy. With national averages hovering near 280 cpl and shows no immediate signs of stabilising, transport costs are expected to remain high. We recommend that those who have traveled long distances or are planning regional trips fill up at high-volume centres where competition remains strongest to optimise their fuel spend.
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 monitoring the market closely, we ensure you never pay more than necessary at the bowser.
FuelRadar's user-friendly interface allows you to quickly compare prices across different service stations, helping you make informed decisions before fueling your vehicle. The app's map feature shows you exactly where to find the best deals, saving you both time and money. Whether you are looking for E10, U91, or Diesel, the data is organised to help you find the best value in seconds.
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 real-time updates ensure that the price you see on your mobile is the price you get at the station.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Don't let rising prices impact your budget—take control of your fuel costs with the most reliable price tracking tool in Australia.
Conclusion
The week ending 22 March 2026 has been one of the most expensive periods for Australian drivers in recent months. With the national average for U91 exceeding 236 cpl and Diesel surging past 280 cpl, the importance of shopping around has never been greater. Stay informed and use the tools available to ensure you are not paying a premium during this rising cycle.
