After three and a half years of much promised toll reform, the Minns Labor Government’s deal announced today will do next to nothing to reduce the impact on most drivers, especially in Sydney’s West and South West.
Analysis by the Opposition shows this announcement only covers 40 per cent total traffic movements in Sydney on any given day, with drivers using WestConnex and drivers in South West Sydney receiving a small benefit.
The Government had years to come up with a deal that its own Fels Review said was possible, and instead it has delivered a half-done job despite their spin.
With the Opposition still reviewing the terms of the proposed deal, we would highlight the following:
Four new tolls will be introduced across Sydney – The Western Harbour Tunnel, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Sydney Harbour Tunnel and the Eastern Distributor.
Taxpayers are on the hook to pay up to $600 million to Transurban directly.
60 per cent of drivers will receive no benefit under the terms of the deal.
Taxpayers will pay to widen the M2-M7 with the additional revenue going to Transurban.
The Opposition has supported toll reform and consistently advocated for greater detail from the Government. The Opposition remains committed to the $50 toll cap until July 2027 – in line with the Labor Government’s commitment.
Shadow Minister for Transport Natalie Ward was surprised by the limited scope of the deal.
“A fairly shocking admission today by Labor’s John Graham to describe his own deal as ‘modest’ after three and a half years and empty promise after empty promise,” Mrs Ward said.
“This is hardly the radical reform that was promised by Chris Minns and Labor with 60 per cent of drivers still waiting for any benefit and other drivers unable to even buy a coffee with what they’ll save.”
“The Minns Labor Government’s promise of toll reform has been all talk and no action.”
