The New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced that toll rebates will be offered to heavy vehicles using the M5 East and M8 tunnels starting from January 1, 2024. This initiative is a part of the NSW Budget 2023-24, aimed at providing relief to both motorists and truck operators.
Under the scheme, trucks will receive a rebate for one-third of their journey on the M5 East and M8, totalling $54 million over a two-year trial period. This initiative is expected to alleviate the financial burden on heavy vehicle operators and support the transportation industry.
In addition to the rebates for heavy vehicles, motorists will also benefit from toll relief measures. The NSW Government has allocated $561 million over two years to implement a toll cap. This toll cap will benefit approximately 720,000 toll account owners, allowing them to claim a refund for toll expenses incurred above $60 per week.
The toll relief measures are particularly beneficial to motorists in Western Sydney, as they have been disproportionately affected by high toll fees. Transport for NSW forecasts suggest that motorists in areas such as Silverwater, Glendenning, Blacktown, Rosehill, Quakers Hill, Holsworthy, and Gosford will receive significant refunds.
For example, toll account owners in Silverwater can expect to receive an average refund of $475 in 2024. Similarly, motorists in Glendenning will be able to claim an average of $540, while those in Blacktown can expect $440 in refunds. Other areas will also receive varying amounts of toll relief.
The introduction of these toll rebates and the toll cap is part of the NSW Government’s efforts to provide relief to commuters and support the transportation industry. Furthermore, the government is undertaking an independent review of toll roads to ensure a fairer, safer, and more efficient system for all users.
Sources: NSW Government, Transport for NSW