Motorists urged to fill up early for Easter

Motorists have been urged to fill their tanks early in the lead up to Easter to take advantage of regular price cycles.

"Shop around for the best prices.  As with any other week, consumers in the major metropolitan cities should take advantage of the weekly price cycle where it operates, and buy petrol on a Tuesday or Wednesday when prices tend to be lowest," Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Commissioner, Mr Joe Dimasi, said today.

"Prices in most major metropolitan cities and some regional centres move in weekly price cycles. This means prices tend to be highest on Thursday or Friday when demand is highest.

"During these cycles retail petrol prices can rise by up to 15 cents per litre.

"Even if you have to 'top up' later in the week, early buying can mean a significant saving for those intending to take advantage of the Easter break and travel long distances.

"Price cycles occur whether there are public holidays or not in a week," Mr Dimasi said.

"There is little evidence that price increases before public holidays are higher than at other times. However, consistent with what happens every week, it is likely petrol prices will rise around the Easter weekend."

The ACCC monitors petrol, diesel and automotive LPG prices throughout the year and will do so over the Easter break. The ACCC Infocentre will be open and taking calls on 1300 302 502.

The ACCC welcomes any information relating to price-fixing, collusion or predatory pricing in the petroleum industry.