A Sydney truck driver who hasn’t paid road tolls for 15 years is set to face court today.
Mark Wearne, who has refused to pay NSW Government road tolls for the past 15 years, has been charged with multiple counts of driver failed to pay a toll.
Wearne estimated that he has accumulated up to $60,000 in unpaid toll fees.
Wearne said tolls are an “unfair” tax which forces drivers – who have to deal with a fuel excise – to pay twice for road use.
“It’s like going into Woolworths for buying your groceries, paying for it, going out to your car, going back in and paying for a second time,” he told 9News.
“It’s just an unfair charge … I’m not paying it.”
According to the Australian Automobile Association’s 2018 transport affordability index, the average Sydney household spends $82.20 on tolls per week, the highest among Australian capitals. Brisbane households spend a comparably lower figure of $51.10, while Melbourne households spend $49.20.
Wearne said he has asked other motorists to join his legal fight, but they are afraid of the repercussions.
Should a driver fail to pay tolls in Sydney after multiple notices, they may be charged with an overdue fine of $253 for each failure, have their license or vehicle registration suspended, or see their property seized or charged.
Wearne’s case will be heard at the local court today. He said he is confident of winning his case and if he is successful, it could encourage others to pursue legal action.
