Congestion Pricing

Client: Case study presented at by Synergies Principal Euan Morton
Sector: Transport

Synergies’ conducted a review of the costs of road congestion in South East Queensland and explored the options and collection methods for a potential congestion charge and its acceptability to both government and the community. Read more.... (clicking here would take you to the section outlined below)

The annual economic cost of congestion in Brisbane is expected to reach $9.3 billion by 2015, exceeding that of both Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane’s population is expected to grow by over one million by 2026, increasing the number of car trips by five million. These factors present a number of economic, social and environmental challenges for policy makers and interest groups.

Synergies Economic Consulting Principal Euan Morton presented the results of an analysis of congestion pricing at the <> conference. His paper included a review of the costs of congestion in South East Queensland and the options and collection methods for a potential congestion charge, as well as its likely acceptability to both government and the community.

The research suggested a model for identifying the optimal congestion tax range at which charging would reduce demand at peak times and therefore reduce congestion. Such a charge could increase efficiency of the road system and reduce the social costs and environmental impacts associated with road congestion.

The conference paper provides a basis for informed policy debate by presenting the costs, context and options for the introduction of road congestion charging in South East Queensland.

Click here to read the entire submission