A small detail in the fuel tax credit rules could affect what your business is entitled to claim.
Following the temporary reduction in fuel excise and excise-equivalent customs duty rates, fuel tax credit rates changed from 1 April to 30 June 2026.
The impact depends on how your business uses fuel.
Two different outcomes
Businesses using fuel off public roads:
- Generally receive a lower fuel tax credit.
- Are currently paying a rate of 20.6 cents per litre.
Businesses operating heavy vehicles on public roads:
- May receive a slightly higher entitlement.
- Benefit from the temporary reduction in the road user charge.
The trap
Fuel tax credits are calculated based on when fuel was purchased, not when it was consumed.
That distinction can create complications when businesses complete their BAS.
The ATO’s fuel tax credit calculator can help businesses determine the correct entitlement.
For businesses with significant fuel usage, even small differences in credit entitlements can have a noticeable impact on operating costs over a year.
Get in touch if you’d like to discuss finance options that help manage rising business expenses.
