NSW doles out $1.5m in free registration

The NSW Government says it has given out more than 3000 free registrations to motorists who have taken up its new Toll Relief program.

Taking effect from July 1, the incentive offers NSW drivers who spend more than $1300 annually on tolls free registration for the year, amounting to savings of up to $729.

NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian revealed this week that the incentive had already amounted to about $1.5 million in free registrations.

“The numbers speak for themselves – drivers simply love the Toll Relief program. We expect about 100,000 drivers across NSW to benefit, with those in western and northwestern Sydney set to be the greatest beneficiaries,” Berejiklian said.

“The average saving so far has been $423 and the government has done the heavy lifting to make claiming free rego simple and easy — either online or in person.”

People in Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill and Kellyville have benefited the most, with 242 people saving $101,000.

Tolls have become a vexing issue for NSW motorists, and will likely form a key topic for the upcoming NSW state election.

Of note is the re-introduction of the M4 toll in western Sydney, after it was widened between Church St and Homebush Bay Drive – a move the opposition believes is unfair because the road has already been paid off.

“The only reason we are promising to implement cashback is because Gladys' tolls are unfair,” Acting Opposition Leader Michael Daley said.

Minister for Finance, Services and Property Victor Dominello said joining up to the free registration program was simple.

“Drivers can simply add their licence plate number to their toll account, then during the registration renewal process Service NSW will tell you if get a free car rego,” said Dominello.

“Even drivers who are not aware that they are eligible will not miss out, as they will be informed when they renew online.”