Australia will halve fuel excise rates and eliminate heavy vehicle road charges for three months from 1 April 2026, delivering AUD 19 savings per tank as the government responds to fuel price pressures triggered by conflict in the Middle East.
The Australian government has announced temporary reductions to the fuel excise rates on petrol and diesel yesterday, 30 March 2026. Both measures will take effect on 1 April 2026 and remain in place until 30 June 2026.
The fuel excise is being halved, meaning it will reduce the cost of fuel by 26.3 cents per litre. This will reduce the cost of a 65-litre tank of fuel by nearly AUD 19.
Furthermore, the Albanese Government will reduce the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge (RUC) to zero for three months to help truck drivers continue their vital work. The Government will also defer the next scheduled increase in the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge by six months.
The spike in fuel prices is the result of the war in the Middle East. This measure is designed to provide relief for Australians.
