Congestion tax, also known as congestion pricing, aims to discourage driving in traffic-prone areas by imposing a surcharge on vehicles. This approach has been implemented in cities such as London, Singapore, Stockholm, and recently in Manhattan, New York City. A 2019 discussion paper by the Grattan Institute suggested introducing a congestion charge in Australia’s capital city CBDs, with Sydney and Melbourne seen as realistic candidates within a decade. However, Brisbane was not included in the study, and there has been little progress on the road-pricing agenda in Australia overall.
Professor Matthew Burke, deputy director of Griffith University’s Cities Research Institute, supports the idea of a congestion tax in Brisbane, especially as the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads increases. He points out that Australia still relies heavily on fuel tax, and EV owners like himself do not contribute to funding the national highway system. The specifics of how a congestion tax would operate can vary greatly from city to city. London charges a flat rate for drivers entering the downtown area on weekdays, while Paris is planning to implement a “Limited Traffic Zone” that prohibits private cars with destinations outside the zone from entering central areas.
In Brisbane, there is a push from urbanism collective Greater Brisbane to create a “car-free CBD” by the 2032 Olympic Games. This initiative aims to reclaim space currently occupied by roads and private vehicles for pedestrian and community use. While such a plan would need careful consideration regarding the delivery of goods and services and the availability of public transport, proponents argue that it could lead to more efficient use of public space and enhanced public transport options. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential impact of congestion pricing on low-income individuals, those with limited access to public transport, and people with mobility challenges.
Despite the potential challenges and criticisms, supporters of congestion taxes argue that the revenue generated could be reinvested in improving public transport infrastructure, creating more pedestrian-friendly streets, and encouraging active transport modes. Professor Burke highlights the importance of considering the broader benefits of reducing private vehicle usage in urban areas, such as decreased congestion and improved air quality. Although the introduction of a congestion tax in Brisbane may face political and practical obstacles, proponents believe that the long-term benefits could outweigh the initial challenges. Ultimately, the decision to implement congestion pricing will require thorough consideration of its potential impacts on various socio-economic groups and careful planning to ensure a successful transition to a more sustainable urban transport system.
