Rival policies set motorists up for road-toll cap win

Victorian Labor has proposed a $30 weekly cap on road tolls in 2027, which could save drivers up to $5000 per vehicle annually. The $191 million commitment could be particularly beneficial for motorists using Victoria's three toll roads - CityLink, EastLink, and the West Gate Tunnel. Small businesses can also claim cash back on up to five vehicles.

The government estimates a motorist traveling the full EastLink route daily would save $2500, while a ute driver using CityLink five days a week could claim $5000. A family with three cars could potentially claim up to $15,000 throughout the year. However, Roads Minister Paul Hamer admits that such a measure might not be sustainable in the long term.

The coalition recently unveiled a similar pledge to cap road tolls at $50 per week for two years, estimating a savings of up to $3000 per year per vehicle. Under both proposals, tolls would continue being paid as usual, but drivers could claim quarterly rebates through Service Victoria. The administration fee for tolls would also be eliminated.

One Nation has not yet released a dedicated policy specifically addressing road tolls, trailing in polls with a primary vote of 25%.