Petrol prices varying as much as 30 cents across SA, RAA says

Petrol price relief should be on the way in the New Year, with the RAA suggesting prices have undergone an ‘unusually long peak’ over Christmas.

South Australians are being warned to avoid overpaying at the bowser, as fuel prices across the state vary by as much as 30 cents a litre.

Petrol has been hovering at $1.99 at most service stations for the past week, but RAA mobility and automotive policy manager Mark Borlace said some outlets were retailing at under $1.70.

“That’s about a 30 cent difference, which could mean saving almost $20 if you’re filling up on a standard 65 litre tank,” he said.

Petrol prices are currently varying by as much as 30 cents across South Australia, according to the RAA. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Flavio Brancaleone

Mr Borlace described it as an “unusually long peak” in the fuel cycle, with the last price spike at the end of November only lasting a few days before falling rapidly.

However, he said over the next week prices would drop closer to the current wholesale price of $1.67, in time for many Christmas holiday return trips.

In the meantime, he urged drivers to use the RAA smartphone app to shop around.

While global events risk causing further price fluctuations in 2025, Mr Borlace expected petrol to move steadily in line with inflation.

“I would expect it to be a relatively stable market, with the caveat of what happens if other countries join the war in the Middle East, and depending on what happens with Trump’s tariffs and trade policy, all bets are off,” he said.

Originally published as Petrol prices varying as much as 30 cents across SA, RAA says