South Australia has recently experienced a noticeable increase in petrol drive-offs. While concerning, this trend is not entirely unexpected given the ongoing cost of living pressures and the sharp rise in fuel prices across the state.

The surge in these incidents has prompted a response from South Australia’s Police Commissioner:

“This takes police away from other responsibilities that we could be attending to, so we are calling on the retail fuel industry to take positive steps to prevent this virtually overnight by implementing pre-paid, which is something they have within their capacity to do,” he said.

“Given the prevalence of petrol stations becoming convenience stores, I’m also questioning whether that is a genuine reason to allow people to take possession of the product you’re selling them prior to providing any money.”

The Commissioner has also called on fuel retailers to consider preventative measures, such as implementing pre-payment systems, to reduce the opportunity for offending. In addition, there are growing concerns that petrol drive-offs may be linked to other criminal activity, including vehicle break-ins and number plate theft.

A detailed report by journalist Daniel Keane, published by ABC News, explores this issue further: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-19/petrol-drive-off-surge-prompts-police-warning-to-retailers/106471400

In South Australia, driving off without paying for petrol is a criminal offence known as ‘Making off Without Payment’. This offence carries a maximum penalty of two (2) years’ imprisonment.

Perhaps this is a good reminder of a few things:

1. Protect your vehicle. Do all that you can to try and prevent theft. SAPOL also provide a range of practical tips to help prevent vehicle break-ins: https://www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/crime-prevention-and-security/vehicle-and-bicycle-security/prevent-car-break-ins
2. Install anti-theft screws to affix your vehicle’s number plates. These can be purchased from hardware stores at relatively low cost and could stop your car from becoming a target.
3. If you happen to be the victim of a theft or break-in, report it to Police immediately.
4. Be kind to each other. South Australians across the board are feeling cost of living pressures and a bit of patience can go a long way.
5. If you are charged with any vehicle related offences, get legal advice early to understand your rights and options. We can help with this, call us on (08) 7095 3440. 

Cost of living pressures are being felt across the community. While this may help explain the rise in certain offences, it does not excuse unlawful behaviour. A level of patience, awareness, and consideration for others can go a long way during challenging times.

If you have been charged with a vehicle-related offence, it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible to understand your rights and options.

The team at Craig Caldicott Lawyers can assist. Contact us on (08) 7095 3440 for confidential advice.