Motorists may have to wait two weeks for fuel price relief
March 31, 2026
Sky News Australia
Australia’s fuel excise tax has been cut in half, reducing the cost by 26 cents per litre, but motorists may need to wait up to two weeks before seeing the price drop at the bowser. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has written to the ACCC, urging the full cut be passed on to consumers. Unleaded petrol prices are expected to fall in the coming days, while diesel has climbed above $3.20 in most cities.
Heavy truck users will also benefit from the road user charge dropping to zero for three months. With Parliament entering a six-week recess after the final sitting day before the budget, Mr Chalmers faces mounting pressure as final budgetary decisions remain uncertain, partly dependent on the situation in the Middle East. The full impact of the crisis on Australia may not be known until budget eve on May 12. Further measures could be hinted at when the Prime Minister addresses the National Press Club. Mr Chalmers maintains ambitions for broader structural reform in the budget despite ongoing economic pressures.
Sky News Australia
Coverage and analysis from Australia. All insights are generated by our AI narrative analysis engine.