Weekly Fuel Price Report: 11 May to 17 May 2026
Welcome to the FuelRadar weekly fuel report. As we analyse the latest data across the country for the week of 11 May to 17 May 2026, motorists are experiencing a mixed bag of price movements at the bowser. While diesel prices continue to offer significant relief across all major centres, petrol price cycles in several eastern capitals are pointing upwards, requiring drivers to be strategic about their fueling habits.
Current fuel prices and prediction
- Mixed Petrol Cycles: Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide are currently in the rising phase of their petrol price cycles. Unleaded 91 (U91) has jumped by roughly 6 cents per litre in Sydney and Brisbane, signaling the start of a more expensive fueling period.
- Relief in Southern and Western Capitals: Melbourne, Perth, and Hobart are seeing downward trends. Perth remains one of the most affordable capitals for U91, making it an excellent time for top-ups in these centres.
- Diesel Drops Across the Board: Diesel drivers are the clear winners this week. Prices have fallen nationally, with significant drops of over 10 cents per litre in Perth, Geelong, Townsville, and Hobart. This is a welcome relief for freight operators and regional travelers.
- Premium Fuels Follow Suit: Premium 95 and Premium 98 generally mirror the standard unleaded trends. However, the national average for P98 remains elevated at $2.05 per litre.
Capital City Price Comparison
The table below outlines the performance of Unleaded 91 across Australia's capital cities over the past week.
| City | Fuel Type | Average Price | Min Price | Max Price | Price Change | Percent Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Unleaded 91 | $1.82 | $1.79 | $1.88 | $0.06 | 3.29% | Rising |
| Melbourne | Unleaded 91 | $1.82 | $1.79 | $1.84 | -$0.05 | -2.81% | Falling |
| Brisbane | Unleaded 91 | $1.81 | $1.80 | $1.85 | $0.06 | 3.11% | Rising |
| Perth | Unleaded 91 | $1.79 | $1.74 | $1.85 | -$0.04 | -1.98% | Falling |
| Adelaide | Unleaded 91 | $1.77 | $1.74 | $1.82 | $0.03 | 1.61% | Rising |
| Hobart | Unleaded 91 | $1.85 | $1.83 | $1.88 | -$0.05 | -2.69% | Falling |
| Darwin | Unleaded 91 | $1.92 | $1.91 | $1.93 | -$0.02 | -1.01% | Falling |
| Canberra | Unleaded 91 | $1.83 | $1.82 | $1.85 | -$0.02 | -1.05% | Falling |
Price Trends by Fuel Type
Here is a snapshot of the national averages across different fuel types, highlighting the best and worst places to fill up your vehicle.
| Fuel Type | National Average | Cheapest Market | Most Expensive Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 (U91) | $1.81 | Gold Coast ($1.75) | Darwin ($1.92) |
| Ethanol 10 (E10) | $1.77 | Adelaide ($1.71) | Canberra ($1.81) |
| Premium 95 (P95) | $1.97 | Geelong ($1.91) | Darwin ($2.09) |
| Premium 98 (P98) | $2.06 | Gold Coast ($2.00) | Darwin ($2.23) |
| Diesel (DSL) | $2.36 | Perth ($2.24) | Canberra ($2.61) |
| Premium Diesel (PDSL) | $2.38 | Adelaide ($2.29) | Canberra ($2.58) |
| E85 | $2.37 | Brisbane / Adelaide ($2.30) | Melbourne ($2.50) |
Looking Ahead
Based on our data, here is what we predict for fuel prices in key cities over the next 3 to 4 weeks:
- Sydney & Brisbane: Motorists should anticipate prices to peak shortly. We recommend limiting your fueling to essential top-ups until the current cycle breaks and prices begin their downward trajectory later in the month.
- Melbourne & Perth: The falling cycle is currently providing excellent value. Drivers should capitalise on these lower prices over the coming week before the cycle inevitably resets and pushes prices higher.
- Diesel Outlook: With global factors stabilising, we expect diesel prices to maintain their gradual decline or plateau. This offers continued relief for diesel vehicles and regional travelers heading into the winter months.
Save Money with FuelRadar
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Conclusion
Staying informed is the best way to optimise your fuel budget. Whether you are navigating the rising petrol cycles on the east coast or taking advantage of falling diesel prices, timing your service station visits can make a noticeable difference to your wallet. Drive safely, and we will return next week with more insights and updates.
