The Coalition roads spokesperson expressed concern over the government’s negotiation with toll road giant Transurban, highlighting a nine-fold increase in tolls for some drivers. The government has been in talks for a tolling contract shake-up since last July, with the Roads Minister stating that the Fels review developed various scenarios and options. He emphasized that Sydney, under the Liberal party, became a model city for tolls, while the Labor government aims to create a fairer toll network. The government claimed to have extensive data and traffic modelling at its disposal, constantly refining it for negotiations.
A peer review by ShapeTransport warned that the current traffic modelling should not be used for investment decisions on toll road assets. The review recommended further work to achieve investment-grade forecasts, given that tolls cost Sydney motorists around $2.5 billion annually. Consultants hired by Treasury found the demand modelling to be adequate for testing alternative toll policies, but further development was needed to negotiate alternative tolls with motorway operators. Transport for NSW stated that any price changes would be confirmed through the toll reform program, with traffic modelling being upgraded to address issues raised in the peer review.
The government faced criticism for proceeding with negotiations despite warnings about the quality of the traffic modelling work. The lack of transparency regarding toll reform details and the potential toll increases for heavy vehicles crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel raised concerns among the public. The Roads Minister defended the ongoing negotiations, stating that Sydney’s toll network needed reform for fairness. With tolls being a significant expense for motorists, it was essential to ensure that the traffic modelling used for forecasting demand was accurate and reliable for investment decisions.
The toll review model was questioned for its ability to forecast demand response to significant toll increases, with further development needed for negotiation with motorway operators. The government clarified that the nine-fold toll increase mentioned in the independent review was specific to heavy vehicles crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel and not government policy. Transport for NSW assured that traffic modelling was being iteratively upgraded to address issues raised in the peer review and ensure it is fit for decision-making points in the toll reform program. The agency emphasized the importance of accurate modelling for toll reform decisions and confirmed that any price changes would be finalized through the toll reform program.
In conclusion, the government’s negotiation with toll road operators for toll reform in Sydney has raised concerns over the quality of the traffic modelling used for forecasting toll increases. The ongoing negotiations and lack of transparency in toll reform details have led to criticism from opposition parties and the public. With tolls costing Sydney motorists billions annually, it is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable traffic modelling for investment decisions and toll policy changes. The government’s commitment to upgrading the traffic modelling iteratively and addressing the issues raised in the peer review is essential for ensuring a fair and sustainable toll network in Sydney.
