Update on temporary fuel cost relief

Racing Victoria (RV) wishes to advise that its temporary business support subsidies for fuel relief will conclude on 31 May 2026.

The business support subsidies were in place for two months during the peak of the Middle East conflict which led to a rapid escalation in fuel costs globally.

By the end of May, over $900,000 in fuel relief will have been delivered to participants and raceday officials across Victoria.

This valuable support comes on top of more than $1 million in emergency relief provided by RV to participants impacted by drought and bushfires across the past 12 months.

The decision not to extend the temporary business support subsidies into a third month reflects the easing of fuel prices in Victoria, among other financial considerations for the industry.

Since their peak in early April when RV’s temporary fuel cost relief measures were put in place, the average Victorian price for standard unleaded petrol has dropped from $2.58 to $1.83 per litre, whilst diesel has reduced from $3.28 to $2.34 per litre.

In making this decision, RV also considered the positive impact of the Federal Government's fuel excise reduction and pause of the heavy vehicle road user charge which continues until at least 30 June 2026.

In terms of available cost-of-living relief, participants are encouraged to take advantage of the Victorian Government's recently announced vehicle registration rebate which allows Victorians to apply for a 20% rebate on their light vehicle registration payments.

Applications for the rebate open on 1 June 2026 and continue through to 31 July 2026 with each person able to claim up to two registration rebates for light vehicles.

For information on the rebate and how to apply visit the Services Victoria website at https://service.vic.gov.au/rego-rebate.

Looking ahead, RV will continue to monitor Government updates on fuel and remain in close consultation with the Australian Trainers Association (ATA), Victorian Jockeys Association (VJA) and Thoroughbred Racehorse Owners Association (TROA).