Are Fuel Cards Worth It for Consultants? Here’s the Data for Australian Small Businesses

What is a Fuel Card and How Does it Work?

A fuel card is a payment card designed for business vehicle expenses. It lets consultants and employees pay for fuel and sometimes maintenance, tolls, and even EV charging, all billed to your business account. This means easier tracking and less paperwork at tax time.

Why Do Consultants and Small Businesses Use Fuel Cards?

Consultants often travel between client sites, meetings, or projects. Fuel cards help small businesses:

• Track expenses in real time
• Reduce admin with consolidated invoicing
• Access discounts on fuel and services
• Set controls on spending and card use

Do Fuel Cards Actually Save You Money?

Many fuel cards offer discounts per litre, typically between 2c and 6c off, depending on the provider and fuel type. For example, Shell Card offers up to 6c/L off at Shell sites, while FleetCard provides access to discounts across multiple brands. If your consultants drive frequently, these savings add up quickly.

However, some cards have monthly fees, transaction fees, or minimum spend requirements. Always compare the total cost versus expected savings for your fleet’s typical usage.

Which Fuel Cards Are Best for Consultants in 2025?

Here’s how the top cards stack up for Australian small businesses with consultants on the road:

FleetCard and Shell Card stand out for network size, flexibility, and new EV features. Shell Card is especially welcoming to new businesses, with shorter credit terms if you’re just starting out.

Can You Use Fuel Cards for More Than Just Petrol?

Depending on the provider you choose, fuel cards can be used for:

• Fuel
• Vehicle servicing and repairs
• Car washes
• Tolls (on selected plans)
• EV charging (FleetCard +Electric, Shell with Blueberry chargers)

You can typically set controls on each card, so your consultants only spend on what’s allowed.

Are Fuel Cards Worth It for Small Fleets or Solo Consultants?

If your business has just one or two consultants, the value depends on:

• How much you drive: The more you spend on fuel, the more you save.
• Admin burden: Even small businesses benefit from easier GST reporting and expense tracking.
• Eligibility: Shell Card is more flexible for new businesses, while FleetCard may require a longer trading history.

For low-mileage consultants, weigh the monthly fees against your likely fuel savings. For most, the admin and tax benefits alone justify the cost.

What’s the Best Fuel Card for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles?

Australia’s EV charging network is booming, with a 90% increase in fast-charging stations in 2024 and more growth expected (according to Electric Vehicle Charging & Infrastructure). FleetCard +Electric is the only card that currently covers both fuel and EV charging, making it future-proof for mixed fleets.

Shell is also rolling out ultra-fast EV chargers at key locations, making its network increasingly attractive for consultants driving electric vehicles.

Are Fuel Cards Accepted Everywhere in Australia?

Fuel card acceptance varies by provider. FleetCard covers about 90% of Australian fuel stations (over 6,800 sites), including major brands and independents. Shell Card is accepted at all Shell, Coles Express, OTR, and Liberty stations – over 1,500 sites. United Card is limited to United Petroleum’s 500 locations, which may not suit consultants travelling interstate or to remote areas.

How Do You Choose the Right Fuel Card for Your Business?

The right fuel card for your business depends on a range of factors. You can consider:

• Where your consultants travel: Do they stick to metro areas or go regional?
• Fuel type and vehicle mix: Petrol, diesel, hybrid, or EV?
• Admin and reporting needs: Do you want all expenses on one invoice?
• Eligibility: New businesses may find Shell Card easier to obtain.

If you want maximum flexibility and future-proofing, FleetCard and Shell Card are leading choices for Australian consultants and small business fleets.

Bottom Line: Are Fuel Cards Worth It for Consultants?

For most Australian consultants and small business owners, fuel cards are worth it. They deliver:

• Consistent savings at the pump
• Simpler admin and GST reporting
• Better control over staff spending
• Access to EV charging as fleets evolve

FleetCard and Shell Card are top picks for their network reach, flexibility, and support for new businesses and mixed fleets. Always compare the fees and features to your business needs before signing up.

Find the Best Fuel Card for Your Business

Fuel cards aren’t just for big fleets; they’re a smart choice for any business looking to cut costs, save time, and stay organised.

With options like FleetCard and Shell Card offering strong discounts, broad acceptance, and powerful admin tools, it’s easy to see why so many landscapers are making the switch.

Ready to spend less time on admin and more time on the tools? A fuel card could be the simple change that drives your landscaping business forward. Check your eligibility today.

Check Your Fuel Card Eligibility

Wondering if you qualify for a fuel card? Use our Eligibility Checker to find out! Click below to determine your business's eligibility and take the first step towards streamlining your fuel expenses.

CHECK ELIGIBILITY

FAQs

How quickly can I get a fuel card after applying?

Most providers process applications in a few business days. Once approved, the card will be mailed to you and should arrive within 4-7 working days, so you’ll likely have it in under two weeks.

Can I use a fuel card for non-fuel purchases?

Yes, many fuel cards can be used for things like car washes, oil, tolls, and even snacks, depending on your provider and settings. You can choose to limit your card to fuel-only or allow other purchases through your provider’s online portal.

What happens if a fuel card is lost or stolen?

If your card is lost or stolen, contact your provider right away to block it and prevent any unauthorised use. Most providers can quickly send a replacement card, though there may be a small fee. Check your provider’s terms for more details.

Is there a minimum business size or trading history required to get a fuel card?

Most providers require you to have an active ABN, but the length of time in business can vary. Some cards, like the Shell Card, are available to new businesses or sole traders, while others may need at least 12 months of trading.

Are fuel card expenses tax deductible?

Yes, if used for business travel, fuel card expenses are generally tax deductible. However, if employees use the card for personal travel (like commuting), those costs may be subject to fringe benefits tax. Make sure to keep accurate records.

Can I set different limits for each employee or vehicle?

Yes, many providers allow you to set custom limits per card, such as daily or weekly spend caps, fuel type restrictions, and time-of-day controls. This helps prevent misuse and ensures each employee has the right access level.

What are the main fees to watch out for with fuel cards?

Fuel cards may have monthly fees, transaction fees, and sometimes extra charges depending on the payment method. Some providers offer promotions that may revert to higher fees later. Always check for hidden charges before signing up.

How do I decide between a multi-brand and a single-brand fuel card?

Multi-brand cards give you flexibility to refuel at a variety of stations, which is useful for employees who travel a lot. Single-brand cards usually have lower fees but limit you to one network. Think about where your team travels most when choosing.

*Fuel discounts and any fees listed are indicative only and subject to change. Actual savings often depend on factors such as business usage, monthly spend, card type, and provider terms. Always check with your chosen fuel card provider for the most up-to-date rates and eligibility criteria.