In Queensland, New South Wales and Northern Territory this is possible thanks to the implementation of mandatory real-time petrol reporting.

So, what is real-time petrol reporting? It’s when service stations must provide real-time prices for their fuel to the state government, which can then be published on websites and apps.

There are a range of benefits to real-time petrol reporting, however despite a commitment to deliver it, the South Australian Government is yet to implement the measure. Here’s 3 reasons why it’ll benefit SA motorists if it does come in.

1. Accurate, up-to-date prices online

Currently, SA motorists can access petrol price information through a range of fuel-comparison apps which rely on a mix of data from users, retailers and private companies. However, it’s not always accurate or up-to-date.

Mandatory real-time petrol reporting means fuel prices published online are updated regularly so consumers can access accurate information that’ll help them choose when to buy.

They’ll be able to gauge when the petrol cycle is at its lowest and purchase fuel when it’s at its cheapest, saving money.

2. Option to shop around

Motorists in NSW can see where the cheapest and most expensive fuel in their area is being sold using the FuelCheck app.

If a similar system is implemented in SA, drivers will be able to use the information available online to shop around and find the best deal on any given day.

It would have an added benefit on days when fuel prices spike by 30 to 40 cents a litre within a couple of hours.

In fact, RAA predicts that mandatory real-time petrol reporting will save a person driving a sedan about $400 a year – that’s almost a quarter of their annual fuel bill.

3. More competition

Mandatory real-time petrol reporting will help give motorists the power to find cheaper fuel, and reward retailers who offer the best deal.

According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), giving motorists more access to petrol price data will empower them to make better purchasing decisions.

Doing so would help drive more competition among retailers.

RAA’s position

These benefits are why RAA is calling on the state government to implement mandatory real-time petrol reporting.

RAA Senior Manager Future Mobility Mark Borlace urged the state government to honour its promise to South Australian motorists and implement the measure.

“The cost of fuel and its effect on household budgets is an ongoing issue for South Australian motorists, which is why RAA wants real-time petrol reporting delivered in SA,” Mr Borlace said.

It will give motorists the best chance to shop around and reduce their fuel bills.”

Want to know more?

We answer some of your fuel-related questions in the winter edition of samotor, coming to RAA members’ mailboxes from May 15.