If you’re not a business but still want to save on fuel, track expenses, or make things easier for your family, you might be wondering: Can I get a fuel card for personal use in Australia?
The short answer is no – fuel cards in Australia are for businesses or sole traders with an ABN. However, that doesn’t mean you have zero options. This guide breaks down how personal fuel cards work, what your options are (with and without an ABN), and the easiest ways to manage your fuel spending more smartly.
What is a Fuel Card and How Does It Work?
A fuel card is a dedicated payment card that can be used at participating service stations for fuel and vehicle-related purchases. Unlike a regular debit or credit card, it’s designed to:
- Control fuel expenses
- Automatically track transactions
- Provide monthly summaries (for business cards)
- Sometimes apply discounts at the pump
Can Individuals Get a Fuel Card?
Yes, but it depends on your situation. If you have an ABN, even as a sole trader, you can apply for most business-grade fuel cards. These include popular cards like:
If you don’t have an ABN, you won’t qualify for most of the traditional fuel cards, but you still have options. Prepaid fuel cards and digital fuel apps are designed for personal use, and can help you budget fuel costs more easily.
How to Get a Fuel Card for Personal Use
Option 1: Business-Style Fuel Cards (ABN Required)
If you run a side gig, freelance, or have any kind of registered business, you likely qualify for a full-featured business fuel card, even if it’s just for your own car.
Popular options:
- Shell Card – accepted Australia-wide, with access to Flybuys and online controls.
- FleetCard – accepted at 6,000+ stations across multiple brands (Shell, BP, Ampol, Mobil, United and more).
- BP Plus, AmpolCard – brand-specific cards with decent discounts and business features.
What you’ll need:
- An active ABN (at least 6–12 months trading history recommended)
- Business and contact details
- Details for vehicles or drivers
- Bank or credit card for monthly billing
Perks:
- Consistent discounts (typically 2c–8c per litre)
- Monthly GST-friendly invoices
- Apps and portals for easy management
- Ability to control spend per driver or card
Option 2: Prepaid Fuel Cards (No ABN Needed)
If you don’t have an ABN, prepaid cards are the closest alternative. These work like gift cards and can be used at the pump or in-store at specific brands.
Caltex StarCash
One of the most widely available fuel cards in Australia. You can pick one up in $20, $50, or $100 amounts at participating Caltex stations and use it at over 1,900 locations nationwide. Easy to gift or keep in the glovebox for emergencies.
AmpolCash Card
A simple prepaid option you can use at any Ampol service station, not just for fuel, but also for snacks, drinks, and convenience items. Great if Ampol is your regular stop.
BP Gift Card
Use it at BP stations across Australia to pay for fuel or anything in the shop. You can buy them online or in-store, and they’re handy for budgeting weekly fuel spend.
7-Eleven Gift Card
Accepted at all 7-Eleven service stations, this card covers both fuel and in-store purchases. A good option for families or drivers who prefer the 7-Eleven network.
Shell Gift Card
Available online or in-store at participating Shell branded service stations, this card can be used for Shell fuel, in-store buys, or even a car wash. It’s flexible, and perfect if you already shop at Coles.
How they work:
- Buy the card in-store, online, or via select retailers
- Load a set amount (e.g. $50, $100, $200)
- Use until the balance runs out
- Reloadable options are available for some brands
Benefits:
- No ABN, credit checks, or monthly fees
- You control the budget by preloading funds
- Great for family members, teens, or budgeting fuel expenses
Limitations:
- No fuel discounts
- No monthly statements or GST breakdowns
- May expire or become unusable if lost
How to Apply for a Fuel Card
For ABN holders (business fuel cards):
- Compare providers – Check station coverage, discounts, and fees
- Apply online – Fill in ABN, business name, contact and payment details
- Approval – Usually within 1–2 business days
- Cards issued – Posted to your address within 5–7 days
- Set controls – Via portal or app: set PINs, block purchases, and track usage
For personal use/prepaid cards:
- Buy from a participating service station, supermarket, or online
- Load with your chosen value (e.g. $100)
- Use it like a gift card until the balance runs out
- Reload (if available), or repurchase as needed
How to Choose the Right Option
If you have an ABN (even as a sole trader):
Go for a business-style fuel card like Shell Card or FleetCard. You’ll get fuel discounts (2c–8c per litre), GST invoices, and easy tracking, ideal if you want savings and admin control.
If you don’t have an ABN:
Stick with prepaid fuel cards. These let you load a set amount and limit spend – great for budgeting, gifting, or managing family fuel use.
If you’re managing fuel costs for teenagers or family members:
Choose a prepaid card like AmpolCash, 7-Eleven Gift Card, or a Shell Gift Card. You can control how much they spend, and avoid handing over your main credit card.
If you want maximum flexibility on where to fill up:
Look for multi-brand options like FleetCard or WEX Motorpass (ABN required). This is accepted at thousands of stations across different fuel brands.
If you mainly fill up at one brand (e.g. BP, Shell, 7-Eleven):
Use a brand-specific card – either a business version (if you have an ABN) or a gift card/prepaid option from that brand. You’ll often get better loyalty perks or promotions.
If you want rewards points (like Flybuys):
Shell Card (for business) is linked to Flybuys, so you can save on fuel and earn points at the same time.
Are You a Business Looking for a Fuel Card? Start Here
Whether you’re a sole trader with one vehicle or managing a team on the road, the right fuel card can help you save money, cut down admin, and stay in control of your fuel expenses.
But with so many providers – each offering different discounts, fees, and station coverage – it’s hard to know which one actually fits your setup.
That’s where we come in.
Use our quick tool to check your eligibility, compare your options side-by-side, and find the best fuel card for your business.
👉 Check Your Eligibility Now – it only takes 2 minutes.
Enquire to save
*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.
