Local motorists have been ambushed by the Abbott Government with the announcement of an increase to the fuel excise commencing from 10 November 2014.

Opposition Leader and Member for Maribyrnong Bill Shorten said the new petrol tax would hurt local resident, particularly in areas with limited public transport.

"Every time they visit the petrol pump, local residents will be paying Tony Abbott's Petrol Tax," he said.

"On top of his GP tax, increased cost for medicine and the reduction in family assistance, Tony Abbott also wants to slug residents whenever they fill up their car".

Bill Shorten said the Abbott Government had effectively bypassed the Parliament in imposing the new tax.

"Before the election, Tony Abbott promised no new taxes. But it seems it's just another day and another broken promise from this Government."

"Even worse, the Abbott Government has sneakily slugged local residents by introducing this tax via the backdoor. Our community deserves better."