WA sues Burk Fuel for selling 91 octane petrol as premium 95 and 98
All fuel samples from Burk Fuel outlets tested as 91 octane despite being sold as higher-grade 95 and 98.
Western Australia's consumer watchdog is taking Burk Fuel to the Supreme Court. The Perth-based chain allegedly mislabelled fuel at several outlets.
Independent tests on samples taken between July 2025 and February 2026 all came back as unleaded 91. Unleaded 91 is the minimum standard for most cars.
Yet it was being sold as premium 95 and 98. High-performance vehicles need or run better on higher-octane fuel.
So customers unknowingly risked engine damage while paying premium prices. Burk Fuel denies the allegations.
The company says it sources from a reputable supplier whose fuel is regularly tested. The watchdog tested fuel from other Perth retailers.
All samples matched their labelling exactly. The agency will seek significant financial penalties if the allegations are proven true.
Mislabelled fuel, the commissioner said, represents a massive breach of consumer trust.
- 14 across Perth and regional WA
- Burk Fuel outlets
- July 2025 to February 2026
- Testing period
- All tested as unleaded 91
- Sample result
- Trish Blake
- Commissioner
Why it mattersDrivers in WA have been charged premium prices for cheap fuel, potentially damaging high-performance engines and undermining trust in fuel retailers.
AustraliaThe case could set precedent for fuel quality enforcement across Australia and result in penalties affecting service station prices and practices.
