The RAC added to concerns about fuel prices today, stating that prices are too high because of a lack of competition in some regional areas.
A lack of transparency in the wholesaling and distribution of fuel contributed to the problem, said David Moir, RAC Executive Manager for Member Advocacy.
Around eight in ten WA motorists indicate concern about current petrol prices, with 75% agreeing that the difference between country and metro fuel prices are especially unwarranted.
The RAC said that the lack of transparency within the regional and distribution sectors meant that one player can dominate the market.
"While we don't believe that more industry regulation is the answer, we do think that information should be made available so that any monopolies at the wholesale and distribution can be exposed," said David.
"In this way, the apparently excessive prices in some towns could be either justified or reduced to a more reasonable level."
The RAC said that, while the Fuelwatch system gives consumers good information on retail prices, there is a lack of information on the wholesale and distribution processes, between the refinery and service stations.
"We are concerned that in some regions individual players may have too much control, which forces retailers to charge excessive prices. The North West and Geraldton show particularly excessive variances in prices.
"However, there is no evidence that the shopper docket system has increased fuel prices and it is a very popular method for consumers to get petrol discounts," said David.
In a June survey of WA motorists, it was found that eight in ten report having used petrol discount schemes, with 51% of motorists using them 'every/ most times.'
The RAC made these comments at the ACCC inquiry into fuel pricing.
