In March and April 2026, some Australians said fuel had become so expensive that driving to work cost more than they earned. Prices rose after the war in the Middle East hit oil supplies. The ABC’s triple j hack heard from hundreds of young people about the problem.
Key Facts
- Cause: The war in the Middle East, which disrupted oil supply.
- Average petrol: $2.38 a litre, up from about $2.09 when the war began, the Australian Institute of Petroleum said.
- Fowler: MP Dai Le told Parliament on 26 March that fuel had hit $3.15 a litre there.
- Government help: Fuel excise halved for three months, cutting 26.3 cents a litre.
- Free transport: Victoria for April, and Tasmania until the end of June.
Real Stories
In Pura Pura, Victoria, 28-year-old Tam Stevens quit her job. Her drive of up to two hours to Melbourne or Ballarat was costing more than she earned, the ABC reported. Hunter Valley winery worker Luke Barbuto said fuel was eating about 10 per cent of his take-home pay.
Apprentices Hit Hard
Nine reported that apprentices were also struggling. A Rheem Australia survey, done before the crisis, found nearly 60 per cent of plumbing apprentices needed help with the cost of getting to work or TAFE.
What the Government Did
The federal government halved the fuel excise for three months. The BBC said this would save drivers about $10 to $20 a tank. Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the cut was designed with regional Australians in mind.
Tips to Save Fuel
- Carpool with workmates or family.
- Use public transport where you can.
- Combine trips to cut down on driving.
- Compare prices on a fuel app before you fill up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did fuel prices go up in 2026?
The war in the Middle East disrupted oil supplies.
How much did the excise cut save?
26.3 cents a litre for three months.
Where was fuel $3.15 a litre?
In Fowler, in Sydney’s south-west, MP Dai Le said.
Conclusion
For some workers, the cost of getting to work became too high. Government help eased some of the pain, but prices stayed high.
Related reads: Bendigo Bank Workforce Changes: Massive Job Cuts Flagged 2026; TRUMP’S DEADLINE! Will the 45-Day Ceasefire Stop the US-Iran War Fuel Crisis?; Fuel Crisis 2026: Why Australia and Singapore Are Teaming Up to Save Our Tanks.
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