How to Save on Fuel with Apps, Price Cycles, and Smart Shopping

As fuel prices fluctuate, finding ways to save at the pump has never been more important. With the help of free fuel price apps, websites, and an understanding of petrol price cycles, motorists can shop smarter and make significant savings over the year.

Here’s how you can take advantage of these tools and strategies to reduce your fuel expenses.

Fuel Price Apps: Your Best Friend at the Pump

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) highlights the growing importance of fuel price apps and websites. With over 40 free apps available in the first half of 2024, motorists have a powerful tool to locate cheaper fuel near them.

Popular Fuel Apps and Websites

• FuelCheck NSW (also covers ACT)
• MyFuel NT
• FuelWatch WA
• State motoring groups like the RACQ, RAA, and RACV
• Commercial apps such as MotorMouth and PetrolSpy

These platforms leverage government-mandated fuel price transparency schemes that require retailers to report price changes within 30 minutes. This near real-time data ensures consumers have accurate and timely information to find the best deals.

The Benefits of Fuel Price Transparency Schemes

Fuel price transparency schemes cover most Australian states and territories, except Victoria. They ensure:

• Comprehensive price data across retail sites.
• Easy access to current prices via apps and websites.

For Victorians, while the coverage isn’t as comprehensive, the available apps still provide valuable insights for comparing prices.

Understanding Petrol Price Cycles

Petrol price cycles, a feature of most major cities, involve sharp price increases followed by a gradual decline. The ACCC notes that these cycles have lengthened in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, making it more challenging to time purchases.

• Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane: Price cycles now last around 7 weeks, up from 4 weeks in 2018. This provides a window of up to 2 weeks to shop around before prices peak.
• Adelaide: Cycles are shorter, averaging around 2 weeks. Monitor prices closely to refuel during the low point.
• Perth: A weekly price cycle makes Tuesday the cheapest day to buy fuel, with around 30% of sales occurring on this day.

In regional locations, price cycles are less common, but apps can still help identify competitive pricing.

Tips for Saving Money on Fuel

1. Use Fuel Apps RegularlyMonitor apps like FuelCheck NSW, FuelWatch WA, or PetrolSpy to find the lowest prices near you.
2. Don’t Stick to One BrandLoyalty to a single fuel brand may cost you. Apps help compare prices across brands for the best deal.
3. Time Your RefuelIn cities with price cycles, buy during the low point or just before prices rise.In Perth, aim to fill up on Tuesdays.
4. In cities with price cycles, buy during the low point or just before prices rise.
5. In Perth, aim to fill up on Tuesdays.
6. Shop Around During IncreasesWhen prices start rising, not all stations increase prices simultaneously. Apps can help find stations still offering lower rates.
7. Plan Your RouteCombine errands or trips with a visit to the cheapest petrol station to maximize savings.

Potential Savings Are Substantial

Smart refueling habits can lead to significant savings:

• A Sydney motorist could save $407 annually.
• In Melbourne, the savings could be $333.
• Adelaide drivers may save $486, and Perth motorists could save up to $740 annually, thanks to the weekly cycle.

Even in areas without price cycles, such as Canberra, Hobart, and Darwin, apps can help you locate lower-priced stations and save money.

Fuel Savings Across Australia: A Quick Snapshot

Take Control of Your Fuel Costs

Fuel price apps and websites, coupled with an understanding of petrol price cycles, empower motorists to make informed decisions and save hundreds of dollars annually.

Whether you’re navigating long price cycles in Sydney, taking advantage of Perth’s weekly dips, or finding hidden savings in regional towns, the tools are there to help you save.

Start using fuel price apps today and watch your savings grow!