FuelRadar Weekly Fuel Report

Date: 19 July 2026
Report Period: 12 July 2026 to 18 July 2026

Overview: Current Overall Fuel Price Situation

As we analyse the market data for the week ending 18 July 2026, Australian motorists are facing a widespread upward trend across most major fuel types. Both petrol and diesel prices have climbed significantly in almost every major centre. The east coast capitals are currently moving through the rising phase of their respective price cycles, while diesel has experienced a sharp, uniform spike nationwide, reflecting tighter wholesale conditions. Whether you are commuting or planning a longer journey, it is crucial to monitor local stations as prices remain highly dynamic.

Reported Fuel Prices and Forecast

• Diesel Surge: Diesel (DSL) prices have jumped dramatically across the country. Major capitals like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide all recorded increases of between 14 and 16 cents per litre (cpl), pushing average diesel prices near or above the 195 cpl mark.
• Petrol Price Cycles: Unleaded 91 (U91) and E10 are rising steadily across most coastal and capital cities. Perth saw the steepest climb for U91, jumping 8.25 cpl (4.99%), while Sydney and Melbourne recorded increases of 5.31 cpl and 4.52 cpl respectively.
• The Canberra Exception: Canberra remains an outlier, showing highly stable prices. U91 in the capital moved by less than a cent (+0.71 cpl), providing some relief for local drivers.
• Stable Premium and Alternative Fuels: Despite the volatility in standard unleaded and diesel, Premium Diesel (PDSL) and E85 remained completely stable with zero price movement nationally. LPG also showed minimal fluctuation, maintaining a stable trend across all surveyed markets.

Capital City Price Comparison

The table below highlights the performance of Unleaded 91 across our major capital cities over the past week.

Price Trends by Fuel Type

Looking at the broader national picture, here is how different fuel types are performing on average across Australia.

Looking Ahead: 3-4 Week Forecast

As we look to the next three to four weeks, motorists should prepare their fuelling strategies accordingly. The east coast capitals (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) are firmly in the rising phase of their petrol price cycles. We expect Unleaded 91 and premium variants to reach their cyclical peaks over the next 7 to 10 days before transitioning into the slow discounting phase. If you see a local station lagging behind the price hike, fill up immediately.

For diesel drivers, the sharp nationwide increase indicates a squeeze in wholesale supply. We anticipate diesel prices to remain elevated for the next 2-3 weeks before we see any meaningful stabilisation. Perth will continue to follow its strict weekly price cycle, meaning drivers should continue to organise their fuelling for the cheapest days of the week. Meanwhile, regional centres and cities like Canberra and Darwin are expected to maintain relatively stable pricing, barring any unforeseen international market shocks.

Check prices before you fill

Fuel prices can move quickly between nearby stations. Use FuelRadar to compare reported prices, update times and station locations before you choose where to fill.

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

Before buying a full tank, check whether the lower price covers the extra distance. Compare the pump price, update time and route.

Conclusion

With prices firmly on the rise across most of the country, staying informed is your best defence against bill shock at the bowser. We will continue to analyse the data and monitor the peak of the current petrol price cycle to help you optimise your fuel budget. Drive safely and remember to check your local prices before hitting the road.