The state government has given a parliamentary inquiry into Queensland's toll roads the green light less than three weeks after the opposition called for an investigation.
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At the end of last month, the LNP said Transurban’s Queensland toll collection arm had received 51 per cent of all complaints lodged with the Tolling Customer Ombudsman, meaning the Sunshine State had submitted more complaints than the rest of the country combined.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said in a statement on Wednesday evening that a report was expected to be handed to the Legislative Assembly by September 13.
The inquiry will look at the operation of existing toll roads in the south-east, toll pricing and incentive options state-wide, the complaint process and statistics, ways to improve customer service and the relationship between the Tolling Customer Ombudsman and the Queensland Ombudsman.
LNP Leader Deb Frecklington said Labor had reluctantly agreed to support a toll review after thousands of complaints had been made.
“The LNP notched up a win on behalf of Queensland motorists,” she said.
“Following a motion moved by the LNP, Labor was forced into establishing a review of the state’s toll system.
“Every day Queenslanders are battling bottlenecks travelling to and from school, work or the shops but, under Labor, our toll roads have been severely under-utilised.
“In great news for drivers, and thanks to the LNP, a parliamentary review will now look at how to make toll roads more affordable by investigating discounts, bundling and other incentives."
Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk government was "always looking for ways to improve".
“In March, we passed legislative amendments to improve toll road commuter outcomes – and commend Transurban Queensland for implementing a new tolling enforcement and compliance regime," he said.
"[This] has reduced the referral of unpaid tolls to the State Penalties Enforcement Register by approximately 85 per cent.
“This is another example of the Palaszczuk government’s ongoing commitment to prioritise Queensland commuters and build for the future.
“We have delivered a record investment in roads and transport funding for a third year in a row."
