Shell, BP, Mobil and Gull have cut petrol prices by up to five cents a litre ahead of the long weekend.

Consumer confidence dipped slightly in the March quarter, according to new research.

Increased demand for oil from China coupled with a global shortage of oil refineries has sent petrol prices to a 16-month high.

Petrol hikes which lifted prices to their highest level in 18 months today have sparked concern from the AA and politicians.

Pressure is on the big oil companies to reverse their latest price rises after Gull announced it had no intention of following them.

Fuel taxes are rising tomorrow, putting the brakes on a good run for motorists who have enjoyed petrol price cuts of 8c a litre since last week.

Strong dollar leads to petrol price cut, says BP, Shell.

Petrol and diesel prices have gone up by five cents a litre at the four major petrol stations.