Member for Auburn Lynda Voltz has called for congestion on local roads be considered as part of the outcomes of the NSW Government’s independent Tolling Review, with public submissions open until Friday 28th July.
Fulfilling a major election promise, the Minns Labor Government announced in May the review would be led by Professor Allan Fels AO, former chairman of the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission, and Dr David Cousins AM, former Chair of the Prices Surveillance Authority and Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria.
A discussion paper was released in June and following the submission period and public hearings, a report of consultation findings is expected to be released in August.
Making a submission on behalf of the Auburn Electorate, Ms Voltz said the reintroduction of tolls on the M4 between Church Street, Parramatta & Homebush Bay Drive, Homebush have had a significant impact on the local community.
“Parramatta Road at Auburn has recently been voted Australia’s worst road and this is significantly due to the reintroduction of the tolls,” Ms Voltz’s submission stated.
“Many commuters are now leaving the M4 at Church Street and accessing Parramatta Road to avoid the excessive tolls.
“One hundred dollars a week, if only going to the city and back, is outside the budget capacity of most of my residents, many of whom are amongst the poorest in the state.”
Ms Voltz said it was important that the tolling review take into account the significant impact the previous government’s changes have had on traffic congestion in our community.
“I’ve made this submission so the electorate’s view can be heard by the review, but I encourage anyone able to make a submission,” she said.
“Tolls on the M4 have had a big impact on local traffic and this review can hopefully take steps to help rectify that.”
LYNDA VOLTZ MPMEMBER FOR AUBURN
