A peak industry body warns that drivers face higher fuel costs after an excise increase looms ahead of a major holiday travel period. Both outlets report that fuel prices are expected to rise on the holiday eve of one of the busiest times for road trips, particularly affecting regional economies that rely on holiday traffic. The warnings focus on the likely impact of higher fuel prices on spending in regional areas, where travellers’ fuel costs can reduce discretionary expenditure on accommodation, food and local services. The articles frame the timing as critical, coming just before large numbers of people take to the roads. While the reports do not provide detailed figures, they emphasize the expected cost pressure from the excise change and how that could influence both individual travel decisions and broader regional business activity. The coverage aligns on the core message: motorists are preparing for increased fuel costs and regional communities may see economic effects during the peak holiday season.