FuelRadar Weekly Fuel Report
Published: 9 May 2026
Report Period: 27 April 2026 to 3 May 2026
Introduction
Welcome to the latest weekly fuel report from FuelRadar. Across Australia, the current overall fuel price situation is presenting highly favourable conditions for motorists. Over the past week, we have observed a significant easing of wholesale and retail prices, resulting in broad downward trends across almost all major capital cities and regional centres. Whether you are fuelling up a standard petrol vehicle or a heavy-duty diesel engine, the data indicates that prices are moving in a positive direction for consumer budgets.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Widespread Price Drops: Unleaded 91 (U91) and E10 prices are falling in the majority of capital cities, with Canberra experiencing the sharpest week-on-week drop for U91 at -3.99%.
- Diesel Relief: Diesel prices continue their downward trajectory across the nation. The national average now sits at 251.55 cents per litre (cpl), providing much-needed relief for regional drivers and the transport sector.
- Adelaide Leads the Pack: Adelaide remains the cheapest capital city in the country for almost all fuel types, including U91 ($1.75 average) and Diesel ($2.42 average), as it currently sits at the stable bottom of its pricing cycle.
- Premium Fuels Trending Down: Premium 95 and Premium 98 have mirrored the standard unleaded market, falling steadily in major centres like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
- Short-term Prediction: We analyse that this downward momentum will continue for the next 7 to 10 days in major east coast cities before wholesale adjustments and standard retail discounting cycles trigger the next inevitable price rise.
Capital City Price Comparison
The table below highlights the performance of Unleaded 91 across Australia's capital cities over the reporting period.
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Min Price | Max Price | Price Change | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | $1.81 | $1.80 | $1.82 | -$0.02 | -0.98% | Stable |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | $1.80 | $1.79 | $1.83 | -$0.04 | -2.16% | Falling |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | $1.80 | $1.79 | $1.81 | -$0.03 | -1.46% | Falling |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | $1.81 | $1.75 | $1.89 | -$0.02 | -1.34% | Falling |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | $1.75 | $1.74 | $1.76 | -$0.01 | -0.52% | Stable |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | $1.87 | $1.86 | $1.88 | -$0.02 | -1.27% | Falling |
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | $1.94 | $1.92 | $1.97 | -$0.05 | -2.38% | Falling |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | $1.84 | $1.81 | $1.88 | -$0.08 | -3.99% | Falling |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
Taking a broader look at the national landscape, the following table outlines the national averages and the extremities of the market for various fuel types.
| Fuel Type | National Average | Cheapest Market | Most Expensive Market | Overall Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 | $1.83 | Adelaide ($1.75) | Darwin ($1.94) | Falling |
| E10 | $1.79 | Adelaide ($1.69) | Townsville ($1.85) | Falling |
| Diesel | $2.52 | Adelaide ($2.42) | Canberra ($2.69) | Falling |
| Premium Diesel | $2.53 | Adelaide ($2.43) | Canberra ($2.67) | Falling |
| Premium 95 | $1.99 | Adelaide ($1.91) | Darwin ($2.11) | Falling |
| Premium 98 | $2.08 | Adelaide ($2.00) | Darwin ($2.26) | Falling |
Looking Ahead
Over the next 3 to 4 weeks, we expect the regular discounting cycles in major eastern centres—namely Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane—to reach their lowest points. Motorists in these cities should prepare to fill up their tanks towards the middle of May to capture the best value before prices inevitably spike as the cycle resets.
For Perth motorists, the standard weekly cycle remains firmly in effect. We recommend continuing to target the traditionally cheaper days of the week to optimise your fuel expenditure.
Meanwhile, diesel prices are analysed to remain relatively stable with a continued slight downward bias over the coming month. As global middle distillate supplies balance out, regional and freight drivers should enjoy a sustained period of less volatile pricing at the bowser.
Save Money with FuelRadar
With petrol 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 fuelling up. The app's map feature shows you exactly where to find the best deals, saving you both time and money.
Available on both iOS and Android mobile devices, FuelRadar puts the power to save in your hands. You can also access the service via our website at url('/map') for desktop planning.
Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are saving on every fill-up! Organise your travel, optimise your budget, and never pay more than you have to.
Conclusion
The first week of May has brought welcome price drops across the nation, setting a positive tone for motorists heading into the cooler months. By tracking the cycles and monitoring local trends, you can ensure your travel budget goes further. Stay safe on the roads, and remember to check your local prices before you head to the pump.
