South Australia Cops 18 Cent Diesel Price Surge on Christmas Day

Right, so here's the thing. While most of us were cracking open a cold one and firing up the barbie this Christmas morning, diesel prices in South Australia quietly jumped a fair whack. We're talking an 18.1 cent increase overnight, pushing the average diesel price from 186.9 cents to 205.0 cents per litre.

Now, you'd be mad not to pay attention to this if you're driving anything with a diesel engine. That's a nearly 10 percent increase in one hit, and it's the biggest single day movement we've seen across the country today.

Where to Find the Cheap Stuff in SA

Look, not all of Adelaide is copping it equally. Some suburbs are still doing the right thing by motorists. If you're out and about today and need to fill up, here's where you might want to head:

The cheapest diesel we're seeing in SA right now is around 167.9 cents per litre at the best servos, while some places are taking the mick with prices as high as 219.9 cents. That's a spread of 52 cents between the cheapest and most expensive stations. Fair dinkum, that's the difference between a couple of slabs of beer.

How SA Compares to the Rest of the Country

Here's where it gets interesting. Western Australia is actually going the other way, with diesel prices dropping 16.1 cents to an average of 185.3 cents. If you're over in Perth or the surrounding suburbs, you're laughing.

Let me break down the state by state picture:

So SA is now sitting second only to the NT for diesel prices across the country. Not exactly the Christmas present anyone was hoping for.

What About Regular Unleaded?

For the majority of you driving petrol cars, the news isn't quite as dramatic. ULP prices across SA have been relatively stable compared to the diesel surge. But worth keeping an eye on over the coming days because these things have a habit of flowing through.

If you're filling up the family wagon for Boxing Day sales trips or heading down to Glenelg for a dip, check the prices before you go. A bit of planning can save you a decent chunk of change.

Regional SA Feeling the Pinch

Regional towns often cop it worse than the city, and this time's no different. If you're driving up to the Barossa or heading out bush, expect to pay a premium. The 52 cent spread between cheapest and most expensive shows there's big variation depending on where you are.

Worth doing a quick check on your phone before you head out. Those regional servos can vary wildly, and a couple of minutes of checking could save you $20 or more on a full tank.

The Silver Lining

Look, end of the day, at least we're not in the Northern Territory where diesel's averaging nearly 238 cents. And those of you with petrol cars are doing alright for now.

The big question is whether this spike is a one off Christmas thing or the start of a trend. With wholesale prices bouncing around globally, it's anyone's guess. But for now, if you're driving a diesel ute or SUV in South Australia, maybe hold off on that Boxing Day road trip if you can.

If you're heading out anyway, check the interactive fuel map before you go. A few minutes of planning means more cash in your pocket for the important stuff. Can't argue with that.