VTA backs government stance opposing a congestion tax for Melbourne, saying there are other measures to address traffic gridlock
By Ruza Zivkusic | June 20, 2011
The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has welcomed the Victorian Government’s opposition to a city congestion tax, saying there are other measures to address traffic gridlock.
The government says it is not considering a submission by economic consulting firm Acil Tasman that believes cars and trucks should be charged when they enter the CBD and inner suburbs.
“There are so many things that can be done without bringing the tax on,” VTA CEO Philip Lovel says.
“None of those have been developed yet, such as multiple deliveries to the same location, working after hours and using different types of trucks. Parking charges are so high already in the city and are doing the job of a congestion tax.”
RACV General Manager Brian Negus believes public transport and roads need to be improved rather than imposing a tax.
“We are opposed to the imposition of a congestion tax. What should be done is a total restructuring of the taxes of motoring as recommended by former treasurer Ken Henry,” Negus says.
He wants the government to focus on improving public transport and the road network, including building underground rail.
A north-west freeway link from the Western Ring Road to Greensborough that connects with the Eastern Freeway and East Link is also needed, Negus says.
“That’s a much better way to address issues of mobility and congestion than simply impose tax,” he says.