The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) is calling for alternative road user pricing methods in the State.
Executive Director Greg Hallam said there is a real need for those who use the roads to pay their fair share, in line with the impact they have on the roads network.
“Broad sections of the community have spent the past six months discussing South East Queensland’s (SEQ) future growth,” he said. “Transport and roads infrastructure are central to future strategies and plans, but plans need to be funded to be implemented.
“It is clear that either new taxes, user charges, demand management, or a combination of these measures is needed if the wonderful SEQ lifestyle is not to be eroded further.
“Unless more money is channelled into roads and public transport, congestion, pollution and productivity will get progressively worse.”
Greg Hallam said that any new road revenues need to go straight back into the roads to provide future benefits.
“Ultimately, we will get what we pay for,” he said. “Now, we can’t have what we want or aspire to, because there is just not the revenue or tax base to pay for it.
“The LGAQ is prepared to engage in meaningful research and discussion with the Queensland Government and other organisations like the RACQ to overhaul the current mish mash of road user pricing, including vehicle registration.
“Let’s start now with an open, honest debate with all the facts and all the potential solutions on the table.”
