NSW Fair Trading inspectors are carrying out unannounced inspections at fuel retailers across metropolitan and regional NSW to ensure prices displayed on the FuelCheck app match those charged at the bowser. Retailers are legally required to register with FuelCheck and report price changes in real time.
The FuelCheck app, which provides real‑time fuel prices from about 2,400 service stations, has seen a sharp increase in use. Downloads jumped from around 25,000 in February to almost one million in March, with more than six million return visits recorded.
NSW Fair Trading has already conducted more than 190 inspections, issuing 13 penalty infringement notices. Retailers who breach the rules face on‑the‑spot fines of $1,100, or court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said the compliance blitz sends a clear message that misleading motorists will not be tolerated. He said FuelCheck and tougher enforcement were key tools to support families facing cost‑of‑living pressures.
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said consumers should report any discrepancies between FuelCheck prices and bowser prices through the app or website, with the regulator continuing to work closely with the ACCC.
