MORE than half the nation is choosing to change their driving habits during the Middle East conflict, helping to reduce strain on the family budget, according to the NRMA.
A national survey of about 1800 NRMA members found that 52 per cent of petrol and diesel vehicle drivers have cut back on driving in the past month.
Just over 40 per cent say they have cut back driving by between 10 to 30 per cent.
However, bookings at NRMA’s Parks and Resorts over the Easter and Anzac school holiday period have demonstrated families remain intent on taking a break, with more than 26,000 families securing a holiday across NRMA destinations.
At the NRMA-owned SIXT, there is strong demand with 13,250 Australians booking vehicles.
Concurrently, there has been a four-fold increase in people accessing the My NRMA app, which gives real time fuel pricing across the nation, as Australians search for the cheapest stations near home or on the way to their destination.
NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury said My NRMA app and the government’s Fuel Check website provides real time information on fuel availability as the vast majority of service stations across Australia had fuel to sell.
“We are seeing families naturally reduce their fuel consumption without the requirement for regulation,” Mr Khoury said.
“However, they continue to want a holiday, with a focus on affordable, low-stress holidays that enable meaningful time together.
“Caravanning and camping remain among the most affordable, flexible and accessible holiday options, even amid record fuel costs and car rentals still remain strong,” Mr Khoury said.
The NRMA survey also found 31 per cent are now choosing cheaper service stations; 24 per cent are combining trips; 13 per cent are walking more; and 12 per cent are using public transport more.
While Australians remain concerned about the impact of the Middle East conflict, the NRMA is urging Australians not to panic, with government measures being implemented to reduce supply constraints.
“Australians are cutting back on or adapting the way they are using the family car and prioritising their trips will go a long way to helping,” Mr Khoury said.
“NRMA is also seeing that with service station shortages stabilising, the crucial message about not panic buying or hoarding fuel is getting through.”
