Minns government puts limit on $60-a-week road toll cap

The Minns government has moved to implement a ‘fair use policy’ on its $60-a-week road toll cap, limiting the amount drivers can claim from the scheme that was a key election promise.

A weekly toll cap will give motorists rebates of up to $340 per week, with the government forced to impose a “fair use” provision in its signature election policy to close a gaping loophole in the scheme.

For the first time, Roads Minister John Graham has confirmed that the $60 per week toll cap will apply to individual e-tags, not toll accounts.

From January 1, most drivers will only pay $60 per week in tolls (for private use). Motorists will be able to claim the cap back quarterly.

However, anyone who racks up more than $400 in a week will only get $340 of that back.

The so-called “fair use” clause is designed to make sure Uber drivers cannot claim money back for tolls incurred during fares.

Roads Minister John Graham (right) has capped the toll rebate at $340 a week.

Random audits will also be conducted in an attempt to stop people breaking the rules.

Drivers who spend on average $200 per week on tolls can expect to receive approximately $7280 in rebates per year under the toll cap, which Labor expects will cost the budget $561 million over two years.

The toll cap will only apply to privately registered cars. Rideshare, taxis, cars registered with businesses and heavy vehicles are not eligible for the rebate.

The toll cap will apply to individual tags, not accounts, contrary to Labor’s pre-election pledge. Before the election Mr Minns said he “reserved the right” to limit the plan to individual tags.

Mr Graham said the change was designed to cut down on fraud.

“The $60 dollar toll cap starting January 1 is part of the Minns Labor government’s number one priority to deliver cost-of-living relief to families at a time when they are doing it tough,” Mr Graham said.

“The toll cap criteria has been designed very carefully to prevent anyone trying to game it.

“We are working with ride share companies to ensure work trips are not claimed.

“This will include random audits.”

The toll rebate will be administered via Service NSW.

“Service NSW will provide a user-friendly experience for motorists to access much-needed toll relief via a quarterly claim,” Customer Service Minister Jihad Dibb said.

“Eligibility criteria is simple: You must be a NSW resident, a private motorist, hold a personal toll account, reach $60 in spend a week on eligible trips and you will be able to claim.”

Originally published as Minns government puts limit on $60-a-week road toll cap