Review of recent developments in road pricing, including freight: phase II: possible applicability of road pricing in Australasia

This report provides an analysis of road pricing from a technical perspective to inform road authorities in Australia and New Zealand of some of the key issues involved. A key objective is to provide advice on what is required to identify and analyse road pricing options and their deliverability in an Australasian context. Three generic pricing mechanisms are selected for more detailed investigation: 1. cordon pricing schemes; 2. link/network pricing schemes; 3. HOT lane schemes. Several comparative examples under each of the three pricing mechanisms have been discussed to draw useful lessons and raise the debate about what may be appropriate for major Australasian cities. The generic pricing schemes analysed can pave the way for network-wide schemes that enable a variety of key objectives including pricing of externalities (e.g. congestion, emissions, and pavement and bridge wear). However, this report does not in any way advocate the use of pricing as a panacea to urban congestion in Australasia. More detailed consideration of congestion problems on a case-by-case basis within jurisdictions is required. (a)