Victorians are set to benefit from a game-changing initiative to tackle unpredictable fuel price hikes, with the state government introducing its Fair Fuel Plan to provide relief to families grappling with the rising cost of living.
Premier Jacinta Allan, speaking alongside tradespeople and apprentices at Victoria University Werribee, explained the significance of the plan, which will require petrol stations to publicly report their prices the day before they take effect and lock them in for 24 hours.
“We know how much fuel prices fluctuate, often multiple times a day,” Allan said.
“Under this plan, you can find out tomorrow’s fuel price at every single servo on your route to work and make informed decisions about where to fill up.”
The initiative also includes a fuel finder feature on the Service Victoria app, enabling motorists to compare prices across more than 1,500 petrol stations statewide.
Allan noted that the app would eliminate the guesswork often associated with fuel shopping, making it easier for families to save.
“It shouldn’t take driving all over town just to find the lowest price,” she said.
“The app will give you real-time access to fuel prices so you can shop around for the best deal.”
The plan introduces strict rules for fuel retailers, allowing only one price increase per day while permitting reductions at any time. Prices must also be reported 24 hours in advance and remain fixed for the entire day.
“This will give Victorians peace of mind,” Allan added.
“When you check your local area at night for the best deal, you’ll know the price won’t change by the time you fill up in the morning.”
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos said the initiative is about empowering families and holding fuel companies accountable.
“Fuel retailers will need to be upfront and transparent about the prices they set,” Staikos said.
“This isn’t just about saving money – it’s about making sure the system is fair and gives families more power at the bowser.”
According to Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) data, Melbourne motorists in 2023 could have saved up to $333 annually by purchasing fuel at the lowest point in the price cycle. With mandatory reporting and a cap on price hikes, the Fair Fuel Plan aims to help families achieve those savings.


While commercial fuel price reporting services currently exist, the government’s solution promises greater inclusivity and transparency.
Minister for Government Services Natalie Hutchins highlighted the advantages of the government-backed app.
“The fuel finder feature on the Service Victoria app won’t be funded by advertisers or promote one outlet over another,” Hutchins said.
“It’s a trusted source where every service station is represented equally.”
The fuel finder will launch later this year, while the cap and reporting requirements will be introduced progressively in 2025. The government is working on legislation and enforcement measures to ensure compliance, consulting with industry stakeholders to ensure fairness, particularly for smaller operators.
“This won’t change everything for families doing it tough, but these savings can add up to hundreds of dollars a year,” Allan said.
The Fair Fuel Plan builds on other cost-of-living initiatives introduced by the Labor Government, such as free rego for apprentices, capped V/Line fares, free kindergarten, and the $400 School Saving Bonus.
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