Looks like if your over 12mts long and 2.8mt high you will get slugged big time towing your van along the Sydney Tollways.
Extract from Grey Nomad Times:
Many grey nomads have reacted with anger to the news that changes to the system mean their caravans and motorhomes may well now be charged as commercial vehicles on toll roads around Sydney.
However, budget-conscious travellers hoping there could be a change of heart on the policy are being warned not to hold their breath. A Transport for NSW spokesperson told the Grey Nomad Times: “Currently the New South Wales Government is not planning to change vehicle classification dimensions.” The issue came to the fore when toll operator, Transurban – which has investments in major Sydney routes such as the M2, M7, M5, the Lane Cove Tunnel, and the Eastern Distributor – decided to consolidate its classification settings across all of its roads. Vehicles more than 12.5 metres in length or more than 2.8 metres in height will now always be classed as Class B vehicles. The measurements are based on the overall height and length, which includes any items installed on the roof, carried or towed.
Previously, the same vehicles could have been classified differently on different roads. What it means in effect though is that some grey nomads are being charged three times what they were a few months ago for taking the same road in the same vehicle. Grey nomad Vince Willis towed his van through the M7 and M2 a week ago and then got a very nasty surprise. “I checked my trips on Linkt and, yes, for those two tolls it cost $36,” he said. “I normally pay about $10 … but what can be done for a re-assessment of these ridiculous fee increases other than avoid the motorways!” It seems that the state government is suggesting that that is exactly what should happen. “Alternative toll-free routes remain available for motorists who would prefer not pay a toll,” a spokesperson said. Some grey nomads also expressed concern that the new toll regime might force Page 2 Issue 210: November 1, 2019 some travellers in big rigs on to unsuitable roads and thus present safety risks and cause congestion. “If we all use the Cumberland Highway that will create havoc, especially if we do it in peak hour morning and afternoon,” said regular traveller, Stephen Holt. Reacting to criticism in some quarters that news of the changes weren’t adequately publicised and that some road users were unaware of what was happening, Transurban was unapologetic. “Before bringing our classifications into line with the Government’s concession classes in August, we proactively engaged with those most affected to explain the changes and impacts for them,” said a spokesperson. •
Extract from Grey Nomad Times:
Many grey nomads have reacted with anger to the news that changes to the system mean their caravans and motorhomes may well now be charged as commercial vehicles on toll roads around Sydney.
However, budget-conscious travellers hoping there could be a change of heart on the policy are being warned not to hold their breath. A Transport for NSW spokesperson told the Grey Nomad Times: “Currently the New South Wales Government is not planning to change vehicle classification dimensions.” The issue came to the fore when toll operator, Transurban – which has investments in major Sydney routes such as the M2, M7, M5, the Lane Cove Tunnel, and the Eastern Distributor – decided to consolidate its classification settings across all of its roads. Vehicles more than 12.5 metres in length or more than 2.8 metres in height will now always be classed as Class B vehicles. The measurements are based on the overall height and length, which includes any items installed on the roof, carried or towed.
Previously, the same vehicles could have been classified differently on different roads. What it means in effect though is that some grey nomads are being charged three times what they were a few months ago for taking the same road in the same vehicle. Grey nomad Vince Willis towed his van through the M7 and M2 a week ago and then got a very nasty surprise. “I checked my trips on Linkt and, yes, for those two tolls it cost $36,” he said. “I normally pay about $10 … but what can be done for a re-assessment of these ridiculous fee increases other than avoid the motorways!” It seems that the state government is suggesting that that is exactly what should happen. “Alternative toll-free routes remain available for motorists who would prefer not pay a toll,” a spokesperson said. Some grey nomads also expressed concern that the new toll regime might force Page 2 Issue 210: November 1, 2019 some travellers in big rigs on to unsuitable roads and thus present safety risks and cause congestion. “If we all use the Cumberland Highway that will create havoc, especially if we do it in peak hour morning and afternoon,” said regular traveller, Stephen Holt. Reacting to criticism in some quarters that news of the changes weren’t adequately publicised and that some road users were unaware of what was happening, Transurban was unapologetic. “Before bringing our classifications into line with the Government’s concession classes in August, we proactively engaged with those most affected to explain the changes and impacts for them,” said a spokesperson. •