Most Sydney road tolls to keep rising after Transurban accused of blocking reforms
Summary
Sydney’s tolls on major roads will increase by at least 4% each year as Transurban, a large private toll operator, rejected a full toll reduction deal. The New South Wales government agreed to some limited toll cuts and will pay $850 million to widen a key tollway to improve traffic.Key Facts
- Eleven Sydney toll roads are operated by Transurban, a company worth $47 billion with contracts running into the 2040s.
- The NSW government made a deal with Transurban to cut some tolls by 10-20% on certain roads between 2027 and 2028.
- Major toll roads like Westconnex and NorthConnex will not receive toll reductions under the deal.
- The government will spend $850 million to widen the M2-M7 tollway, expecting increased toll revenue from more traffic.
- Average Sydney drivers spend nearly $650 a year on tolls, with full travel on Westconnex costing about $12.74.
- Toll increases of at least 4% per year will continue on many roads, causing higher costs for drivers.
- NSW taxpayers already pay Transurban over $100 million yearly to cover toll caps for drivers, with this expected to rise.
- A former competition regulator criticized Transurban for blocking reforms and prioritizing profit over public interest.
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