NatRoad urges Australian government to cut heavy vehicle fuel charges

The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) is urging the Australian federal government to suspend the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge to mitigate rising fuel costs. CEO Warren Clark has called on the Albanese government to reduce the charge, which currently stands at 32.4 cents per litre, back to zero until the end of January.

With diesel prices approaching $3 a litre in some regions and unleaded petrol reaching approximately $2.60, NatRoad warns that increased freight expenses will inevitably impact the retail sector. Clark noted that these costs will likely be passed on to consumers through higher prices for groceries, presents, and other Christmas essentials during a peak freight period.

Clark emphasized that while the government cannot control international factors like Middle East tensions, it can manage domestic taxation. He highlighted that previous temporary relief provided in April had a positive impact on the economy and argued that small and family-owned freight businesses are particularly vulnerable to the current price squeeze.