How to Find the Cheapest Fuel in Australia: Best Apps and Strategies 2025

Why Australians Are Desperately Searching for the Cheapest Fuel in 2025.

Fuel prices in Australia have become a daily frustration for drivers — whether you’re a rideshare driver in Sydney or a family planning a road trip from Brisbane to Cairns. One thing is clear: everyone’s searching for the cheapest fuel nearby to stretch every dollar further.

In fact, “cheap gas near me” and “cheap fuel app” are some of the most searched terms across Google in 2025. Why? Because the cost of living has gone up, and fuel remains one of the biggest household expenses — especially for those who commute daily.

While fuel stations used to post similar prices, competition today varies wildly. You could be paying $2.10 per litre at one servo, and just a few blocks away, another station might offer it for $1.85. Without a cheap gas app or reliable tool, you risk overspending at every refill.

And that’s exactly why using apps to find cheap gas prices near me has become essential. They not only help you spot deals but also track pricing trends, petrol cycles, and let you plan fuel stops ahead of time. Whether you’re looking for cheapest diesel near my location or regular unleaded, having the right tools can make a big difference.

In this guide, you’ll discover the most accurate tools and strategies Aussies are using to locate the cheapest fuel in their area, and how you can start saving immediately — without needing to drive across town.

How to Find the Cheapest Fuel in Australia: Best Apps and Tips:

Understanding How Fuel Prices Work in Australia

Before diving into how to find cheap fuel, it’s helpful to understand why prices fluctuate so much. The cost of fuel in Australia is influenced by several factors:

• Global Oil Prices – The price of crude oil directly affects petrol and diesel costs.
• Exchange Rates – Since Australia imports most of its fuel, a weaker Aussie dollar can make fuel more expensive.
• Fuel Tax and Government Levies – A large portion of what you pay at the pump includes excise duties and taxes.
• Fuel Price Cycles – Some cities, like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, experience price cycles where prices rise and fall in predictable patterns.
• Local Competition – Some areas have more petrol stations competing for customers, leading to lower prices.

Best Apps to Track Cheap Fuel Prices in Australia

Thanks to technology, finding the cheapest fuel near you is easier than ever. These apps provide real-time updates on fuel prices, helping you make smart choices.

1. FuelCheck NSW

Best for: NSW residents looking for government-verified fuel prices

• Government-mandated price reporting ensures accuracy
• Covers all fuel stations across NSW
• Real-time updates on price fluctuations

2. FuelMap Australia

Best for: Free crowd-sourced fuel prices across Australia

• Covers both metro and regional areas
• Helps you track fuel expenses
• Map-based interface makes finding fuel easy

3. PetrolSpy

Best for: Extensive fuel price tracking with live updates

• Shows live price updates from users and official data
• Covers major cities and rural areas
• Helps plan fuel stops for long trips

4. MotorMouth

Best for: Fuel price predictions and trends

• Provides price cycle insights for major cities
• Allows you to set fuel alerts for your area
• Premium users can see tomorrow’s predicted prices

5. My NRMA App

Best for: NRMA members looking for fuel discounts

• Provides live fuel price tracking
• Offers discounts at participating fuel stations
• Integrates with NRMA Roadside Assistance

6. 7-Eleven Fuel App

Best for: Locking in fuel prices

• Allows users to lock in the cheapest fuel price for up to 7 days
• Works at any 7-Eleven fuel station
• Great for securing low prices when prices are rising

Top tips to Get the Cheapest Fuel in Australia

Apps are great, but there are other ways to consistently find cheap petrol and diesel. Here are some tried-and-tested strategies:

1. Fill Up on the Right Day

In cities with price cycles, fuel prices follow a pattern. According to ACCC (Australian Competition & Consumer Commission), the best days to fill up are:

• Brisbane: Prices tend to be lowest every 7-9 days
• Sydney & Melbourne: Cheapest fuel days occur roughly every 6-9 days
• Perth: The best day to fill up is usually Monday or Tuesday
• Adelaide & Canberra: Prices fluctuate less but still follow cycles

You can check the latest price cycle trends on the ACCC website.

2. Avoid Filling Up on Peak Days

Fuel prices typically increase on Thursdays or Fridays, just before the weekend. Try to avoid filling up during these peak times.

3. Use Fuel Discounts and Rewards Programs

Many fuel companies offer loyalty programs or discount schemes:

• Woolworths Rewards & Coles Flybuys – Earn fuel discounts when shopping at Woolworths or Coles.
• EG Ampol Rewards – Save money on fuel at Ampol stations.
• 7-Eleven Fuel Lock – Lock in low prices for 7 days.
• RACV, NRMA, RACQ, and other motoring club discounts – Members often get exclusive fuel savings.

4. Compare Fuel Prices Before Driving to a Petrol Station

A few cents per liter might not seem like much, but over time, it adds up. Always check fuel prices in your area before heading out.

5. Fill Up Outside City Centers

Petrol stations closer to major highways or in city centers tend to have higher prices due to higher land costs and demand. Driving a little further out can save you money.

6. Consider Using E10 Instead of Regular Unleaded

If your car is compatible with E10 fuel (a blend of ethanol and petrol), it’s often cheaper than regular unleaded petrol.

7. Plan Fuel Stops for Long Trips

If you’re going on a long trip, fuel up in areas where fuel is known to be cheaper. Apps like PetrolSpy and FuelMap help with this.

Hidden Fuel Costs: What You’re Probably Overlooking

While apps and tips help Aussies track down the cheapest fuel, many drivers unknowingly waste money on hidden fuel-related costs. Understanding these can boost your overall savings — even more than simply chasing the lowest fuel price.

1. Under-Inflated Tyres Reduce Fuel Efficiency

Did you know that driving with tyres even slightly under-inflated can reduce your fuel economy by up to 3%? Regularly check tyre pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Not only will this help you save fuel, but it will also extend tyre life and improve safety.

2. Carrying Extra Weight Costs More Than You Think

Roof racks, cargo boxes, and even unused baby seats add weight and drag — increasing fuel consumption. When hunting for the cheapest fuel, don’t forget to lighten your load. Remove unnecessary items and avoid using roof storage unless absolutely necessary.

3. Poor Vehicle Maintenance Wastes Fuel

A poorly maintained engine, clogged air filter, or underperforming spark plugs can cause your car to consume significantly more fuel. Schedule regular services and engine tune-ups. The upfront cost of maintenance is often less than what you’d spend on excess fuel over time.

4. Aggressive Driving Burns More Petrol

Frequent acceleration, hard braking, and speeding all reduce fuel efficiency. Smooth driving, proper anticipation of traffic, and maintaining consistent speeds (especially on highways) can dramatically improve your mileage — helping you maximise the value of that cheapest fuel you hunted down.

5. Using the Wrong Fuel Type

Some drivers opt for premium fuels unnecessarily, thinking they’re “better” for their vehicle. But if your car is designed for regular unleaded or E10, using premium petrol may not deliver any performance or fuel efficiency benefits — it’s just extra cost. Always check your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Comparing Fuel Prices Across Australian States: Where’s the Cheapest Fuel?

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s cheaper to fill up in Queensland or Victoria — you’re not alone. Fuel prices in Australia vary significantly depending on location, competition, and state regulations. Here’s a quick breakdown of where drivers are most likely to find the cheapest fuel, based on recent trends and data.

New South Wales (NSW)

• Average Fuel Price: $1.91/L (Regular Unleaded)
• Best Tool: FuelCheck NSW App (government-operated)
• Tip: Prices often spike mid-week, so fill up Monday or Tuesday.

Victoria

• Average Fuel Price: $1.89/L
• Best Tool: PetrolSpy, MotorMouth
• Tip: Look for cheap fuel stations just outside Melbourne CBD. Suburbs like Dandenong or Craigieburn often have lower prices.

Queensland

• Average Fuel Price: $1.87/L
• Best Tool: RACQ Fair Fuel Finder
• Tip: Brisbane follows a 7–9 day price cycle. Fill up during the dip, not the spike.

Western Australia

• Average Fuel Price: $1.94/L
• Best Tool: FuelWatch (WA Government)
• Tip: Perth has one of the most predictable fuel cycles in Australia. Mondays are usually the cheapest fuel days.

South Australia

• Average Fuel Price: $1.90/L
• Best Tool: PetrolSpy
• Tip: Prices can jump unexpectedly, so use a cheap fuel app to monitor spikes.

Tasmania

• Average Fuel Price: $2.02/L (Often higher due to transport costs)
• Tip: Look for cheaper fuel options near Hobart suburbs or use loyalty discounts from Coles Express and Woolworths Caltex.

Northern Territory & ACT

• Average Fuel Price: $2.05–$2.10/L (higher due to low competition)
• Tip: Bulk fuel stops and regional stations are often your best bet.

Apps vs Loyalty Discounts: What Actually Saves You the Most on Fuel?

With so many fuel-saving strategies out there, Aussies are often left wondering — should I rely on a cheap fuel app or sign up for store loyalty rewards? Both offer solid benefits, but depending on your location and driving habits, one might offer better savings than the other.

Cheap Fuel Apps – Real-Time Control

Apps like FuelMap Australia, PetrolSpy, and MotorMouth let you check live fuel prices near your location. You can filter by fuel type, sort by cheapest price, and even track pricing trends.

Pros:

• Real-time price updates
• Free to use
• Covers wide geographic areas
• Ideal for road trips and regular commuting

Cons:

• Doesn’t always account for discounts
• Accuracy may vary in rural areas

Best For: Drivers who want to compare fuel prices quickly before filling up — especially useful for finding the cheapest fuel near me when travelling.

Loyalty Discounts – Guaranteed Per-Litre Savings

Programs like Woolworths Everyday Rewards, Coles Flybuys, and EG Ampol Rewards offer discounts (usually 4–10 cents per litre) when you shop at partner supermarkets. NRMA, RACV, and other motoring clubs also offer ongoing member-exclusive discounts.

Pros:

• Fixed savings per litre
• Stackable with app-found low prices
• Long-term reward perks

Cons:

• Often tied to spending at specific stores
• May require minimum fuel quantity to apply discount
• Limited to partner fuel stations

Best For: Households that do regular grocery shopping at Coles, Woolworths, or IGA — and prefer convenience.

The Winning Strategy: Combine Both

The smartest drivers use a cheap fuel app to spot the cheapest fuel in their area, then apply loyalty discounts on top. This way, you’re not only choosing the lowest price — you’re reducing it even further.

Example: If FuelMap shows a 7-Eleven station offering fuel at $1.85/L, and you use the 7-Eleven Fuel Lock feature, you could lock that rate for 7 days and combine it with rewards from your grocery spend.

Final Thoughts

Finding cheap fuel in Australia doesn’t have to be a hassle. By using fuel price apps, following price cycles, and taking advantage of rewards programs, you can save hundreds of dollars a year on petrol and diesel costs. Small changes like choosing the right day to fill up, avoiding peak times, and comparing prices can add up to big savings over time.

By staying informed and planning ahead, you’ll never have to overpay for fuel again. Safe travels and happy saving!

Disclaimer

Fuel prices fluctuate daily and depend on various factors. While this guide provides strategies to save on fuel, actual prices may vary based on location, time, and economic conditions. Always check with local fuel apps or official sources for up-to-date fuel prices.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Finding the Cheapest Fuel in Australia

1. How can I find the cheapest fuel near me?

Utilize real-time fuel price comparison apps like PetrolSpy, FuelMap Australia, and FuelCheck NSW. These apps allow you to compare prices across various service stations in your vicinity, helping you locate the cheapest fuel options available.​

2. What is the best app for finding cheap fuel in Australia?

Several apps are popular among Australian drivers for tracking fuel prices:​

• PetrolSpy: Offers a comprehensive map of fuel prices across Australia.​
• FuelMap Australia: Provides a crowd-sourced database of petrol stations and fuel prices.​
• FuelCheck NSW: A government-run app providing real-time fuel prices in New South Wales.​
• MotorMouth: Displays fuel price trends and cycles.​
• RACQ Fair Fuel Finder: Tailored for Queensland drivers, offering fair fuel price benchmarks.​

Each app has its unique features, so it’s advisable to try a few to see which one best suits your needs.​

3. When is the best time to buy fuel in Australia?

Fuel prices in Australia often follow a cyclical pattern, especially in major cities:​

• Sydney & Melbourne: Prices typically peak mid-week and are lowest on Mondays or Tuesdays.​
• Brisbane: Follows a similar cycle, with the cheapest prices usually at the start of the week.​
• Perth: Has a more predictable cycle, with prices dropping every Monday.​

Monitoring these cycles using fuel price apps can help you plan your refueling to coincide with the lowest prices.​

4. Do loyalty programs help in getting cheaper fuel?

Yes, many supermarkets and fuel retailers offer loyalty programs that provide fuel discounts:​

• Woolworths Everyday Rewards: Earn points and receive discounts at participating fuel stations.​
• Coles Flybuys: Accumulate points and access fuel discounts at Coles Express stations.​
• EG Ampol: Offers discounts when you shop at Woolworths and scan your Everyday Rewards card.​

Combining these loyalty discounts with information from fuel price apps can maximize your savings.​

5. Are there government resources for checking fuel prices?

Yes, several Australian states provide official platforms for monitoring fuel prices:​

• FuelCheck NSW: Offers real-time fuel prices across New South Wales.​
• FuelWatch WA: Provides daily fuel price updates for Western Australia.​
• RACQ Fair Fuel Finder: While not government-run, it offers fair fuel price benchmarks for Queensland drivers.​

These platforms are reliable sources for accurate and up-to-date fuel pricing information.​

6. Is E10 fuel cheaper than regular unleaded petrol?

Generally, E10 (a blend of 10% ethanol and 90% unleaded petrol) is cheaper than regular unleaded petrol. However, not all vehicles are compatible with E10. It’s essential to consult your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines to determine if E10 is suitable for your car.​

7. Can I save money by driving to a different suburb for cheaper fuel?

While fuel prices can vary between suburbs, it’s important to consider the distance and fuel consumption required to reach a cheaper station. If the savings per litre outweigh the cost of the extra travel, it may be beneficial. Using fuel price apps can help you assess whether the trip is worthwhile.​