07/04/2026
With substantial increases in fuel costs that are likely to continue for the foreseeable future, it’s important to review whether there are opportunities to reduce your exposure by managing your fleet more effectively.
Many businesses that require staff to undertake work travel – including for example businesses employing sales staff and tradespeople - have relaxed policies that often allow some level of personal use of their vehicles.
While this can be a valuable staff benefit, it is important to be aware of the associated cost, and to consider your alternative options if those costs are set to significantly increase. Options will depend whether you provide the vehicle as part of the employee’s contractual package, but could include moving from allocated to pool vehicles, placing restrictions on personal use, reducing the size of your fleet, or making operational changes that reduce your business mileage.
Any changes of this nature need to be carefully planned and thoughtfully executed. If the employee has been using an employer-provided vehicle, they may resist changes that increase their personal travel costs.
Government guidance about the National situation is available from MBIE: Business.Govt
Talk to ER Resolutions for initial advice about the options that could be suit your business, and for assistance to implement changes.
