Weekly Fuel Price Report: 16 March 2026 – 22 March 2026
Welcome to the weekly fuel price analysis for FuelRadar. This past week has seen a significant upward movement in petrol and diesel prices across the nation. Motorists in almost every major centre have faced sharp increases at the bowser as the price cycle continues to trend upwards. With national averages for regular unleaded now sitting well above the $2.30 mark, it is becoming increasingly important for drivers to recognise and monitor price movements to optimise their fuelling costs.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- National Overview: The national average for Unleaded 91 (U91) has reached 236.54 cpl, with almost all capital cities and regional hubs reporting a "Rising" trend.
- Significant Increases: Adelaide and Hobart experienced the most dramatic price hikes for U91, rising by 21.65 cpl and 21.89 cpl respectively.
- Diesel Pressure: Diesel prices remain exceptionally high compared to petrol, with a national average of 280.04 cpl. In many cities, diesel saw weekly increases exceeding 25 cpl.
- Cheapest Petrol: Geelong and Melbourne currently offer the lowest average prices for U91 at 233.05 cpl and 233.41 cpl, though these prices are also on the rise.
- Premium Fuels: Premium 98 (P98) has climbed to a national average of 261.62 cpl, with Darwin recording the highest average price at 273.49 cpl.
- Prediction: Based on current data, we expect prices to continue their upward trajectory into the coming week before reaching a peak in most capital city cycles.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of Unleaded 91 prices across Australia's capital cities for the period 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 increase across all fuel categories, with diesel and premium fuels seeing the most significant jumps in cents-per-litre terms.
| Fuel Type | National Average Price | Cheapest City | Most Expensive City | Overall Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 | 236.54 cpl | Geelong (233.05) | Darwin (242.14) | Rising |
| E10 Petrol | 233.06 cpl | Melbourne (230.40) | Wollongong (235.78) | Rising |
| Diesel | 280.04 cpl | Melbourne (274.87) | Wollongong (283.23) | Rising |
| Premium 95 | 251.98 cpl | Geelong (246.94) | Darwin (257.60) | Rising |
| Premium 98 | 261.62 cpl | Geelong (256.89) | Darwin (273.49) | Rising |
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to the next 3 to 4 weeks, the outlook for motorists remains challenging. In major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, the current rising trend suggests that prices may hit their cycle peak within the next 7 to 10 days. Once these peaks are reached, we expect a slow decline to follow; however, the "floor" of the next cycle is predicted to remain higher than previous months due to international supply pressures.
For Perth, the weekly price cycle will continue to see sharp spikes followed by rapid falls, while Adelaide and Brisbane may see a more prolonged period at the top of the cycle. Diesel users should prepare for sustained high prices, as the gap between petrol and diesel remains wider than historical norms. We recommend that motorists fill up sooner rather than later if they see prices below the current city averages, as the immediate trend is still pointing upwards.
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 analysing the latest data, you can avoid paying premium prices at the wrong time of the cycle.
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 looking for E10, Unleaded 91, or Diesel, the ability to see the price spread across your local area ensures you never pay more than necessary.
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 before you leave home or the office.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Don't let rising fuel costs exhaust your budget when the best prices are just a tap away.
Report concluded 26 March 2026. All prices are in cents per litre (cpl).
