Drivers to fork out more for toll roads in the New Year
Motorists will be digging a little deeper into their pockets to take Sydney toll roads in the New Year.
Nine popular motorways will see prices rise by up to four per cent from January 1, with drivers in the west stung the worst.
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward told Mark Levy the tolls are necessary to “allow these things to be built and delivered”.
“Benefits to drivers are out there every day from those toll roads by having their travel times slashed, having a safer, more reliable trip.”
But Mark Levy pointed out Sydney is the “most tolled city in the world”, with “exorbitant” charges to drive on a number of roads.
“We need to get the balance right with the perspective of we are building, we have the biggest infrastructure program we’ve ever had in NSW and bigger than other states put together,” Ms Ward said.
Press PLAY below to hear the interview in full
Shadow roads minister John Graham told Joe Hildebrand Labor can’t get answers on how fixed the agreements to raise prices is.
“We’re not sure of the answer at the moment because there are secret compensation clauses.
“The government said very, very significant compensation if these toll arrangements are changed but we don’t know exactly what – we’re trying to get to the bottom of that.
“Already the burden is too high and it’s getting higher every day.”
Press PLAY below to hear more on Labor’s stance
Image: Getty