Although prices vary significantly from town to town in the region, Coles Express and Caltex are predominately the most expensive on average.

In some cases, the difference can be anywhere from 7.2 cents per lite to 2 cents per litre.

Muswellbrook is offering E10 between 151.90 and 153.90, while Scone jumps from 147.90 to 153.90.

Singleton, however, surpasses both areas.

The lowest comes in at 150.70 but increases to 157.90 at four locations – Coles Express, BP Singleton, Caltex Woolworths and McDougalls Hill.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) advises consumers to switch brands, and shop around, in order to save substantial dollars.

“Our analysis of petrol prices shows the range between major retailers with the highest average price and lowest average price varied considerably,” chairman Rod Sims said.

“The majority of motorists tend to go to the same petrol station every time they fill up.

“Research shows it might be time to consider, which station to fill up at.

“Shopping around has the added benefit of increasing competition by putting pressure on retailers who charge the most to lower their prices or risk losing customers.”

Mr Sims explained the increase was the result of three factors — the exchange rate, higher international crude oil and refined petrol prices, and high gross retail margins.

“Petrol retailers’ margins are the highest they have ever been and motorists are paying for it,” he said.

There are a variety of fuel price websites and apps that provide information to drivers about petrol prices, including the NSW FuelCheck website and app.

(according to www.fuelcheck.nsw.gov.au)