Petrol likely to get cheaper: Here’s when to buy
A combination of a strengthening Aussie dollar and a crash in the global oil price means petrol prices have fallen to a stunning low.
But savvy drivers can save even more if they know when to buy.
Sydney
Prices are decreasing but will likely fall further, so buyers should wait if they can.
In fact, prices peaked between the 7th and 9th of December, which means buyers probably have another eight or so days where prices will continue to fall.
Sydney’s last price cycle lasted 52 days – 28 days longer than the previous cycle. That means the falling price period could be extended beyond another eight days.
NRMA estimates the average unleaded petrol price will fall to 117 cents per litre over the next two to three weeks.
Melbourne
As in Sydney, buyers should wait to buy if they can as prices are still decreasing.
The last cycle was also unusually long, and this coupled with falling prices means prices could continue to fall for longer than the usual six to10 days from this point in the cycle.
Brisbane
It’s the same story in Brisbane, with prices falling but likely to fall further.
Adelaide
Buyers should wait to buy if they can as there are still probably around 10 days until prices bottom out. Adelaide’s last cycle was distinct to the other major cities in that it wasn’t unusually prolonged.
Perth
Prices in Perth tend to peak on Tuesday before falling to a low the next Monday. This cycle is regular, so Perth drivers’ best bet is to buy next Monday if they can.
Where to buy?
Prices will generally be cheaper inside the major cities, so it’s best to fill up before you depart on the holiday road-trip.
However prices will also vary among stations.
The latest petrol pricing report from the ACCC described Coles Express stations as the most expensive retail petrol stations, while Metro Fuel had the cheapest prices.
Drivers can also use apps like the NRMA’s MyNRMA, FuelCheck, FuelWatch, MyFuelNT and RAC Go to compare prices around them.
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