Rising fuel prices are significantly impacting Australian holidaymakers, with many reconsidering traditional Easter road trips. Jan and Earl Robinson, retirees who have been caravanning for nearly two decades, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation they have decided 2026 is the year they are "not going anywhere" after the cost of filling their vehicle soared.
According to data from the Australian Institute of Petroleum, the national average price for unleaded petrol has seen sharp increases in recent weeks, contributing to cost-of-living pressures. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) monitors these prices, noting typical seasonal fluctuations and the influence of international oil markets and the Australian dollar.
Motoring groups, including the Australian Automobile Association, have expressed concern that high fuel costs are putting a brake on regional tourism, which relies heavily on Easter holiday traffic. The situation highlights broader economic challenges facing households as they plan for holiday periods.
