NatRoad has welcomed proposed reforms to NSW’s oppressive road toll system after the NSW Government announced new legislation today.
The NSW Government’s proposed reforms include the creation of a new state-owned tolling entity ‘NSW Motorways’ to oversee a reformed toll network. An independent pricing watchdog ‘IPART’ is also proposed to monitor toll prices and work towards establishing a new independent, industry-wide tolling customer ombudsman.
NatRoad has been calling for these changes to the toll system for several years and is pleased to see its recommendations coming into effect in NSW.
Speaking on the issue NatRoad CEO, Warren Clark, said the changes are a relief for the road transport industry.
“What was announced today is in line with what NatRoad has been calling for over 6 years. I’m pleased to see so many of our recommendations finally being taken up.
“The recognition from NSW Minister John Graham that Sydney is the most tolled place on earth is also important.
“We can’t continue with a situation in which transport companies are spending millions on tolls, as was highlighted in a report this week. In the same report, one company reported spending over $7m on tolls annually. Multiple operators are spending over a million.
“Our members don’t have a choice but to pay the tolls, and small businesses operating on tight margins do not have the economic bargaining power to simply pass on all higher costs.”
Introducing independent price monitoring is an important step but must be followed by further reform.
“Ultimately we need a system where new tolls must be subject to independent regulation and the heavy vehicle toll multiplier is reduced to be more reflective of actual costs,” Mr Clark said.
“We need to see multiple trip discounts, off-peak incentivised pricing and a clear commitment to reduce business costs and the cost of living.
“Unfortunately, even with the introduction of these proposed reforms, for now road users will still pay the same price at the toll booth.”
Media information – media@natroad.com.au
