Weekly Fuel Report: 16 March 2026 to 22 March 2026
Motorists across Australia faced significant pressure at the bowser this week as petrol and diesel prices continued a sharp upward trajectory. The reporting period from 16 March to 22 March 2026 saw average prices for regular unleaded petrol (U91) climb in every major capital city, with some regions experiencing double-digit increases. Diesel users were particularly hard-hit, with prices surging by over 10 per cent in several jurisdictions, pushed by global supply constraints and local market cycles.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Sydney: U91 prices rose by 14.64 cpl (6.37%) to an average of 236.04 cpl. The market remains in a rising phase, with the highest recorded price reaching 244.31 cpl.
- Melbourne: The average price for U91 settled at 233.41 cpl, up 13.69 cpl from the previous week. While Melbourne remains one of the cheaper capitals, the trend is firmly rising.
- Brisbane: Prices increased by 5.85% to an average of 235.09 cpl for U91. Premium fuels like P98 are now averaging 260.29 cpl.
- Adelaide: Adelaide saw one of the most aggressive price hikes this week, with U91 jumping 21.65 cpl (9.54%) to an average of 237.02 cpl.
- Perth: Following its unique price cycle, Perth saw a 7.39% increase in U91, reaching an average of 238.15 cpl.
- Diesel: Diesel prices have surged nationally. In Hobart and Canberra, diesel averages have climbed by more than 27 cpl in a single week, making fueling particularly expensive for transport and trade sectors.
- Prediction: We expect prices to continue rising over the next week before potentially reaching a peak. Motorists are advised to use tools to find the cheapest available stock before prices rise further.
Capital City Price Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of average prices for Unleaded 91 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 upward movement across all fuel categories, with Diesel and Premium Diesel leading the increases.
| 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 | Stable |
| 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
As we analyse the current market data, it is evident that the price cycle is currently in a "Rising" phase across almost all Australian jurisdictions. For the next 3 to 4 weeks, we anticipate that prices will remain elevated. In Sydney and Brisbane, the current cycle suggests that we are nearing the peak, which usually precedes a slow decline. However, external factors such as international terminal gate prices and regional supply issues continue to put upward pressure on the local market.
Adelaide and Hobart, which saw the largest percentage increases this week, are likely to see prices stabilise slightly as they reach the top of their current cycles. Motorists in Perth should continue to monitor their specific weekly cycle, which remains the most predictable for fueling at the right time. We recommend that drivers fill up sooner rather than later if they find a station still offering prices below the current city average, as further increases are expected before any meaningful relief occurs.
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 from thousands of service stations, we help you recognise where the best value is located before you even leave your driveway.
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 U91, Diesel, or Premium fuels, our platform ensures you never pay more than necessary by highlighting the price variance in your specific centre.
Available on both iOS and Android devices, FuelRadar puts the power to save in your hands. Our real-time updates ensure that the price you see on your mobile is the price you get at the bowser. You can also access the service via our website at https://fuelradar.com.au/map for desktop planning and a comprehensive view of national trends.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Don't let rising costs impact your budget—stay informed and optimise your fuel spending with the most reliable price monitoring tool in Australia.
Conclusion
The week ending 22 March 2026 has been one of the most expensive periods for Australian motorists in recent months. With the national average for U91 sitting at 236.54 cpl and diesel nearing the 280.00 cpl mark, the importance of price comparison has never been higher. Stay tuned for our next report as we continue to monitor the market for any signs of a downward trend.
