Individuals and families

We are at Level 2 of the National Fuel Security Plan. This means fuel supply continues as normal but you may experience localised disruptions and changes in price.

Decorative.

What the government is doing

The Australian Government is taking action to keep costs down and fuel flowing.

Key actions underway

Saving you money at the pump by cutting the fuel excise.

Making sure you see the savings with new laws against petrol price gouging.

Keeping fuel flowing, buying more fuel and fertiliser now, and working with our international partners.

Limiting fuel cost increases from flowing through to essential products by cutting costs for the businesses that keep our shelves stocked.

Providing transparent information through regular fuel supply and price updates, and market monitoring.

Visit the full list of government actions to read more about these announcements and further measures being taken by the government.

Actions you can take

Simple changes to how you travel can help keep fuel available for the people, places and essential services that need it most.

Some alternatives won’t be possible for everyone. But by working together, we can make our fuel supply go further and keep Australia moving.

Plan your trips

Planning ahead can help reduce unnecessary travel and reduce cars on our roads.

  • Combine errands into a single trip, where possible.
  • Plan routes to reduce distance travelled.

Drive efficiently

Driving efficiently can reduce fuel consumption by between 10% to 40%.1

  • Drive smoothly and avoid harsh acceleration and braking.
  • Maintain steady speeds and use cruise control, where possible.
  • Avoid idling when parked or waiting.2

Look after your vehicle

A well-maintained car can reduce fuel consumption by between 5% to 17%.3

  • Keep tyres inflated to the recommended pressure.
  • Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle.
  • Remove roof racks or external equipment when not in use.
  • Where possible, service your vehicle regularly.

Consider alternative transport options

Where possible, choosing other ways to travel can help reduce fuel use and ease demand on supply.

  • Walk or cycle for short trips where it is safe and practical.
  • Use public transport where it is available.
  • Consider alternative forms of travel when you attend events, have family gatherings or go on holidays.
  • Consider carpooling or ridesharing to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

Reduce fuel use where possible

Small choices can help reduce overall fuel demand.

  • Use air conditioning and heating on low settings.
  • Consider whether every trip is necessary.
  • Travel at off-peak times where possible to spend less time on the road.

Monitor and adjust your fuel use

Being aware of how much fuel you use can help you make informed choices.

  • Track fuel use over time.
  • Consider adjusting your driving habits based on conditions.
  • Only fill up with the fuel you need.
  • Don’t fill past the first click of the pump.

Mental health and support services

Information and contact details are available for mental health and support services in Australia.

References

  1. Thomas, J., S. Huff, B. West and P. Chambon. 2017. Fuel Consumption Sensitivity of Conventional and Hybrid Electric Light-Duty Gasoline Vehicles to Driving Style, SAE Int. J. Fuels Lubr. 10(3):2017, doi:10.4271/2017-01-9379; Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 2017. Sensible driving saves more gas than drivers think. Return to footnote 1 ↩
  2. Argonne National Laboratory. 2015. Stop and Restart Effects on Modern Vehicle Starting. Return to footnote 2 ↩
  3. IEA (2005), Making Cars More Fuel Efficient, IEA, Paris; Patuleia A, Kadijk G, Verbeek M, Smokers R (2012). Supporting Analysis regarding Test Procedure Flexibilities and Technology Deployment for Review of the Light Duty Vehicle CO2 Regulations; Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 2014. Fuel Economy and Emissions Effects of Low Tire Pressure, Open Windows, Roof Top and Hitch-Mounted Cargo, and Trailer (SAE 2014-01-1614). Study results are based on testing with a small sedan, a standard size SUV, a single roof-top cargo box (20" H x 40" W x 50" L), and a single rear-mount cargo tray. Cargo boxes with other dimensions or shapes may have a different effect on fuel economy; Based on a fuel economy improvement of 0.33% per 1% reduction in weight as estimated by Ricardo Inc., Impact of Vehicle Weight Reduction on Fuel Economy for Various Vehicle Architectures , April 2008. Return to footnote 3 ↩