Prices are forecast to increase to about $2.20 a litre for unleaded and $2.60 a litre for diesel when the fuel excise returns to its normal rate.

Drivers can expect a modest fuel price rise as excise relief ends, but the freight industry warns higher transport costs will be passed on to consumers.

Petrol now costs more than $1.90 a litre in every capital city, with diesel expected to exceed $2.40 a litre