The Minns Labor government is taking a major step forward in putting an end to the former government’s toll mania that saw Sydney become the most tolled city on earth, with a $60 weekly toll cap officially starting today.
Across the state, almost three-quarters of a million motorists are expected to benefit from the toll relief scheme, a key initiative to support families with the rising cost of living.
Motorists in Western Sydney, who are paying some of the highest toll rates in the state will benefit the most, including more than 60,000 eligible accounts in Lakemba, Kellyvillle, Baulkham Hills, Winston Hills, Greystanes, Moorebank and Blacktown.
Customers eligible for the scheme can register and claim rebates through Service NSW from April 2024.
The scheme assesses spend on a weekly basis. Quarterly rebates will be transferred to an account holder’s nominated bank account and toll relief will begin accruing from today.
This includes any private trips taken on a NSW toll road, excluding those on the M5 South-West for customers registered for the M5 South-West Cashback Scheme at the same time.
Drivers who spend on average $200 per week from their individual tag or licence plate on tolls can expect to receive approximately $7280 in rebates per year.
A “fair use” provision will ensure the integrity of the scheme, with motorists able to claim up to $400 in tolls – or a maximum rebate of $340 a week. Anything above this limit will not be refunded.
Rideshare, taxis, cars registered with businesses and heavy vehicles are not eligible for the rebate.
To assist in getting trucks off local roads and to prioritise the efficient movement of goods, a truck multiplier also comes into effect from today.
The ‘truck multiplier’ rebate includes all NSW and interstate registered trucks that travel on the M5 East and M8 with a valid E-Toll, Linkt or Eastlink account.
These trucks will receive a rebate for a third of their trip travelled on the M5 East and M8, costing an estimated $54 million over the 2-year trial.
Customers registering for the truck rebate from April 2024 will automatically see the toll cap credits applied to their toll account each quarter.
To find out if you are eligible for the $60 toll cap rebate visit Service NSW.
The $60 toll cap scheme is set to run as a trial for 2 years.
The NSW Government continues to undertake an independent review of toll roads, led by Professor Allan Fels AO and Dr David Cousins AM who will report back with recommendations to make the NSW toll system simpler, fairer and more efficient into the future.
Acting Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:
“The Minns Labor government’s number 1 priority is helping people across NSW with the rising cost of living.
“Capping tolls to $60 a week is a key part of our commitment to ease the financial burden being faced by many families.
“This toll cap will provide toll relief where it is needed most, to families who are doing it tough, particularly across Western Sydney.”
Acting Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“The $60 toll cap was a key election promise. Nearly three-quarters of a million people will be better off as we’ve delivered on our promise.
“This is another initiative the Minns government has put in place to help people with reducing the cost of living.”
