Rising fuel costs and ongoing shortages are significantly reshaping everyday life in Australia, according to new research from YouGov. The study, conducted among 1,033 Australian adults between 9–13 April 2026, reveals widespread behavioural change across travel, spending, and long-term attitudes toward energy, highlighting the growing impact of cost-of-living pressures on Australian households.

Nearly three in four Australians (74%) have changed their daily travel behaviour in response to rising fuel prices. Common adjustments include reducing out-of-home activities (30%), increasing use of public transport (30%), walking more (19%), and working from home more frequently (16%).

These shifts are most pronounced among younger Australians and those living outside major capital cities, while one in five (20%) remain reliant on petrol or diesel vehicles with limited alternatives—particularly older generations.

Fuel pressures driving structural behaviour change

The impact of rising fuel costs extends beyond daily routines. Nearly six in ten Australians (59%) say they have changed their 2026 travel or holiday plans, with 8% cancelling trips altogether. Others are opting for closer or more affordable destinations (16%), reducing spending (16%), avoiding peak travel periods (14%), or switching transport modes (13%).

“Fuel costs are no longer just a budgeting concern—they are actively reshaping how Australians move, travel, and spend their time,” said Catherine Kretzmann, Director at YouGov “We are seeing a shift from discretionary mobility to more considered, cost-conscious behaviour.”

Electric vehicle interest accelerates

Rising fuel costs are also influencing longer-term decisions. More than a third of Australians (37%) say they are now more likely to consider purchasing an electric vehicle, including 12% who are “much more likely.”

Interest in EVs is particularly strong among younger Australians, higher-income households, men, and families with children, suggesting that affordability and accessibility remain key barriers for broader adoption.

Pessimism about short-term outlook

Public sentiment indicates limited confidence in near-term improvement. More than four in ten Australians (45%) believe the fuel situation will worsen over the next 12 months, including 30% who expect significant broader cost-of-living impacts. Only 9% believe conditions will return to normal quickly.

Older Australians are notably more pessimistic than younger generations, reflecting differences in financial resilience and mobility options.

Growing support for both energy security and transition

The research also highlights shifting attitudes toward Australia’s energy future. Nearly two-thirds (63%) say the current situation has increased their support for expanding domestic fuel production, particularly among older Australians.

At the same time, half of Australians (50%) report increased support for investment in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, especially among capital city residents. However, one in five (20%) oppose further renewable investment, with resistance highest among Baby Boomers and residents in Queensland.

A complex and evolving energy landscape

The findings point to a population navigating both immediate pressures and long-term trade-offs. While many Australians are adapting their behaviour in response to rising costs, they are also re-evaluating their expectations around energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

“The fuel situation is creating a dual response,” Kretzmann added. “Australians are looking for short-term solutions to manage costs, while also recognising the need for long-term energy transition. Policymakers and industry face the challenge of balancing both—while acknowledging that different groups are experiencing these challenges in very different ways.”

Methodology
YouGov conducted an online survey of 1,033 Australian adults aged 18+ between 9–13 April 2026. The sample is nationally representative of the adult Australian population.

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