More than 15 million people boarded public transport in Perth this March. Photo Credit: Ben Baumann

Perth drivers are driving less, avoiding filling up and cancelling trips in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran, according to a new survey.

The poll of 600 Perth motorists by motoring advocacy group RAC has found more than 70 per cent of drivers are struggling to afford fuel and are changing everyday travel plans to ease the financial stress.

It also found that 25 per cent of motorists are now turning to public transport to alleviate the cost of affording fuel, placing more pressure on the system to cope.

The world is currently experiencing the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market, causing fuel prices to surge.

WA’s Public Transport Authority says public transport usage data is being compiled for April, but that the fuel crisis has coincided with a period of major change.

Those changes include: “The opening of new METRONET train lines and stations, the rollout of the Go Anywhere Fare (unlimited travel for three hours for a coast of $2.80) which has made public transport more affordable, and the rollout of contactless payments (is) making it easier than ever to jump on board,” a PTA spokeswoman said.

Meanwhile, the State government has also funded free public transport on Sundays and free transport for students.

RAC spokesman Rhys Heron says its data shows people are exploring alternatives to driving and are switching to public transport for their commutes.

March recorded the highest monthly number since records began, with more than 15M passengers boarding Perth’s public transport network, according to PTA.

The FuelWatch website has also received a spike in activity, with more than 76 per cent of motorists now check before fuelling up – nearly 9M visits in March and April, the RAC survey showed.

“Prices can vary a lot, even within the same suburb, which is why it’s important to use services like FuelWatch to ensure you are getting the best deal,” Mr Heron said.

In response, the State Government says it has launched updates to FuelWatch, with all fuel stations across WA now required to update their prices daily and immediately report if they have run out of fuel.