Weekly Fuel Price Report
Date: 17 May 2026
Reporting Period: 4 May 2026 to 10 May 2026
Introduction
Welcome to the FuelRadar weekly fuel report. As motorists hit the roads this week, we analyse the latest data to help you optimise your travel budget. Across the country, petrol prices present a mixed bag of stable and rising trends in the major centres, while diesel drivers will be pleased to recognise a universal drop in prices at the bowser. Whether you are commuting to the city centre or travelling to regional areas, staying informed is the best way to manage your fuelling costs.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- National Unleaded Average: The national average for Unleaded 91 (U91) is currently sitting at 181.64 cents per litre (cpl).
- Diesel Relief: Diesel prices are providing significant relief for the transport sector and regional drivers, falling across all capital cities and regional centres. The national average now stands at 245.59 cpl.
- Cheapest and Most Expensive: The Gold Coast recorded the cheapest U91 in the country at an average of 176.54 cpl, while Darwin remains the most expensive market at 192.74 cpl.
- Capital City Cycles: Eastern capitals are showing varying cycle stages. Sydney and Brisbane remain relatively stable, while Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide are seeing rising trends in petrol prices.
- Prediction: We expect diesel prices to continue their downward trajectory in the short term. For unleaded petrol, motorists in rising markets like Melbourne and Adelaide should fill up immediately, while those in stable or falling markets may benefit from comparing local prices before committing.
Capital City Price Comparison
The table below provides a detailed breakdown of Unleaded 91 (U91) prices across all Australian capital cities for the reporting period.
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Min Price | Max Price | Price Change | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | 180.52 cpl | 179.58 cpl | 181.50 cpl | +1.48 cpl | 0.82% | Stable |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | 180.56 cpl | 179.07 cpl | 182.69 cpl | +3.62 cpl | 2.02% | Rising |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | 178.68 cpl | 177.54 cpl | 180.22 cpl | +1.70 cpl | 0.95% | Stable |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | 180.44 cpl | 174.16 cpl | 187.52 cpl | +3.36 cpl | 1.89% | Rising |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | 178.26 cpl | 175.14 cpl | 180.17 cpl | +5.03 cpl | 2.87% | Rising |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | 187.61 cpl | 186.73 cpl | 188.06 cpl | +1.15 cpl | 0.62% | Stable |
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | 192.74 cpl | 192.33 cpl | 193.24 cpl | +0.91 cpl | 0.47% | Stable |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | 181.39 cpl | 179.76 cpl | 183.37 cpl | +2.62 cpl | 1.45% | Rising |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
A national overview of average prices across different fuel types, highlighting the most affordable and most expensive markets.
| Fuel Type | National Average | Cheapest Market | Most Expensive Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 (U91) | 181.64 cpl | Gold Coast (176.54 cpl) | Darwin (192.74 cpl) |
| Ethanol 10 (E10) | 177.37 cpl | Adelaide (172.11 cpl) | Townsville (183.11 cpl) |
| Diesel (DSL) | 245.59 cpl | Adelaide (236.21 cpl) | Canberra (266.80 cpl) |
| Premium Diesel (PDSL) | 246.40 cpl | Adelaide (237.04 cpl) | Canberra (263.47 cpl) |
| Premium 95 (P95) | 197.75 cpl | Gold Coast (192.81 cpl) | Darwin (209.78 cpl) |
| Premium 98 (P98) | 206.98 cpl | Gold Coast (201.32 cpl) | Darwin (224.44 cpl) |
Looking Ahead
Over the next 3 to 4 weeks, we anticipate the current discounting and hiking cycles in the eastern and southern states to mature. Melbourne and Adelaide motorists should be prepared for prices to peak soon before the next discounting phase begins. Sydney and Brisbane are currently stable but will likely follow suit in their respective price cycles shortly. Motorists in these cities should keep a close eye on local trends to avoid paying top dollar.
The continued fall in diesel prices is a welcome relief for the transport sector and motorists who have travelled long distances. With global pressures easing slightly, we expect diesel to remain stable or continue its gradual decline, potentially dropping closer to the 240 cpl mark in more capital cities over the coming month.
Motorists travelling to regional centres should remain vigilant, as regional prices tend to lag behind capital city cycles. Always organise your fuelling stops to optimise savings, particularly when crossing between stable and rising price zones.
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.
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 without the need to drive around searching for the cheapest petrol.
Available on both iOS and Android devices, your mobile becomes a powerful tool to combat rising living costs. FuelRadar puts the power to save directly in your hands. You can also access the service via our website at /map for desktop planning before you head out on your journey.
Don't pay more than you have to at the bowser. Download the FuelRadar app today and join thousands of motorists who are successfully lowering their fuelling costs on every trip!
Conclusion
While the fuel market continues to show volatility for unleaded petrol, the widespread drops in diesel offer a silver lining for many Australians. By understanding the price cycles in your specific city and utilising real-time data, you can safeguard your household budget against unexpected spikes. Stay safe on the roads, and remember to check your local prices before you fill up this week.
