Currently in beta, FuelCheck means that when a service station changes the fuel price on its bowsers and updates its signage boards, it must also post the changes to a database that is available to the public online.

Motorists will be able to use FuelCheck to assess the range of fuel prices in their region.

Mr Marshall and the Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello will be in Armidale on Monday for the country NSW launch of the initiative.

The tool’s launch has been warmly welcomed by Mr Marshall, who has vigorously spoken out against inflated fuel prices in Armidale.

“Armidale’s motorists have sometimes been asked to pay seven cents a litre more for unleaded fuel than if they bought it up the road at Guyra,” Mr Marshall said.

“An ACCC investigation into whether the city’s service stations are engaging in cartel behaviour is ongoing, but in the meantime this initiative will help motorists everywhere make more informed decisions about where they buy their fuel.

“It means that for the first time, a vehicle owner can calculate the convenience value of buying fuel at a handy big-brand service station, or whether it is worthwhile to drive to a small independent or out-of-the-way vendor for cheaper fuel.”

There will be heavy penalties for selling fuel at a price other than that notified on the online price board.

“FuelCheck promises some real competition among fuel vendors in country areas, something that is long overdue,” Mr Marshall said.

“I greatly look forward to launching this initiative with the Minister next week.”

FuelCheck is currently in a beta version at www.fuelcheck.nsw.gov.au. Consumers are encouraged to provide feedback about the accuracy and functionality of the website to NSW Fair Trading.