Weekly Fuel Price Report: 8 July – 14 July 2026

Published: 15 July 2026
By: FuelRadar Lead Fuel Price Analyst

Market Overview

As we analyse the petrol and diesel markets for the week ending 14 July 2026, we are seeing a clear divergence between unleaded and diesel fuel trajectories across Australia. The national average for Unleaded 91 (U91) currently sits at 169.35 cents per litre (cpl), reflecting a broader stabilisation across major population centres. Conversely, diesel averages have climbed to 188.37 cpl nationally, driven by wholesale pressures and high winter demand. For motorists and transport operators alike, it is crucial to recognise these shifting trends to optimise your weekly fuelling strategy.

Reported fuel prices and forecast

• Unleaded Stability on the East Coast: Major centres like Sydney (164.22 cpl) and Melbourne (166.15 cpl) have seen negligible movement in U91 prices, holding steady with virtually no week-on-week change.
• Diesel on the Rise: Diesel and Premium Diesel variants are trending upwards across almost all capital cities and regional hubs. Sydney recorded a 2.73 cpl (1.48%) jump in diesel, while Brisbane saw a 2.43 cpl (1.30%) increase.
• Regional Relief: Drivers in Canberra and Hobart are enjoying a downward trend in unleaded prices. Canberra’s U91 dropped by 1.25% to 178.05 cpl, and Hobart experienced a 1.50% fall to 173.64 cpl.
• Perth's Upward Shift: Perth is the primary outlier for unleaded petrol this week, with U91 rising by 2.25 cpl (1.38%) to an average of 167.89 cpl.
• Premium Fuels Following Suit: Premium 95 and 98 grades remain largely stable across the board, mirroring the behaviour of standard unleaded rather than the rising diesel market.

Capital City Price Comparison

The table below highlights the performance of Unleaded 91 across our capital cities over the past week. (Note: Prices have been converted to dollars per litre for ease of comparison).

Price Trends by Fuel Type

Looking at the national averages, we can see how different fuel grades are performing across the country.

Looking Ahead

Over the next 3 to 4 weeks, we anticipate the current stability in the unleaded market along the eastern seaboard will face a seasonal shift. Motorists in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane should be prepared for the petrol price cycle to potentially turn, meaning it is wise to top up while averages remain in the mid-$1.60s. Perth drivers should monitor local stations closely, as the current upward momentum may continue for another week before correcting.

For diesel users, the forecast is less forgiving. With steady increases recorded in major coastal and regional areas like Newcastle, Wollongong, and the Gold Coast, diesel prices are expected to remain elevated. Transport operators and drivers of diesel vehicles should lock in lower prices early in the week where possible to mitigate the impact of this rising trend.

Check prices before you fill

Fuel prices can move quickly between nearby stations. Use ' . App(\App\Services\SiteConfigService::class)->getSiteName() . ' to compare reported prices, update times and station locations before you choose where to fill. ' . App(\App\Services\SiteConfigService::class)->getSiteName() . ' shows reported prices and update times where available, ensuring you have the most accurate data at your fingertips.

The map is useful when you want to see nearby stations quickly. The list is useful when you want to sort by price, distance or fuel type before leaving home, work or the shops.

Use the mobile app for saved stations, alerts and directions when you are out. Use the website at ' . Url('/map') . ' when planning on a larger screen.

Before buying a full tank, check whether the lower price covers the extra distance travelled. Compare the pump price, update time and route to truly optimise your savings.

Conclusion

Staying informed is the best defence against fluctuating fuel costs. Whether you are navigating the rising diesel prices or taking advantage of the stable unleaded averages, a quick check of local data can make a tangible difference to your household or business budget. Drive safely, and we will be back next week with a fresh analysis of Australia's fuel markets.