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Fuel Tax Credit Changes from 1 April 2026
Fuel tax credit rates have decreased from 1 April 2026 following the temporary reduction in fuel excise. As fuel tax credits are directly linked to the excise paid on fuel, businesses need to ensure they are applying the correct rates when preparing their Business Activity Statements (BAS).
What This Means for Your BAS
Different rates apply depending on when the fuel was acquired:
- Fuel acquired before 1 April 2026 → use the previous rates (March BAS)
- Fuel acquired from 1 April 2026 onward → use the new rates (April BAS and beyond)
If your reporting period includes both dates, it’s important to split your claim and apply the correct rate to each portion.
Temporary Change for Heavy Vehicles
From 1 April to 30 June 2026, the heavy vehicle road user charge has been reduced to zero. During this period, businesses using fuel in heavy vehicles on public roads can claim fuel tax credits equal to the excise paid.
Key Actions for Businesses
- Review fuel purchase records carefully
- Apply the correct rates based on purchase dates
- Apportion claims where necessary
- Keep accurate documentation to support your claims
If you need help reviewing your BAS or calculating your claim, please contact our office.