Rising fuel costs and global supply uncertainty are beginning to ripple through reducing traffic volumes, as new data shows Australians are driving less and changing their travel habits.
A recent survey by insurer Youi of 800 Australians found that nearly half (49%) are cutting back on driving altogether, while others are combining trips (26%) or switching to public transport (22%) in response to higher fuel prices.
The shift is being driven by significant increases in fuel spend, with Australians now paying an extra $50–$60 per week on average — around $3,000 a year. With many households already under financial pressure, discretionary driving is one of the first behaviours to change.
The data also highlights just how reliant Australians remain on their vehicles. Nearly half of households say they could only maintain normal daily activities for a week or less without fuel, underlining the critical role of private transport — but also how quickly behaviour adjusts when costs rise.
For repairers, the impact may not be immediate or evenly distributed. Urban shops could see a sharper drop in minor collision work as commuters reduce travel or work from home, while regional operators may experience less change due to limited transport alternatives.
Interestingly, responses differ by age and household type:
- Younger Australians (18–24) are more likely to switch to public transport and even stockpile fuel.
- Older Australians (75+) are more likely to simply drive less or not change their habits at all.
- Families with young children are among the most proactive: combining trips, switching fuel types, and even queuing early to secure fuel.
- Higher income households are the least likely to use public transport, but are much more likely to work from home to save on travel.
Meanwhile, Aussies living solo are the least likely to make changes and most likely to report no adjustment to their habits.