Motorists in New South Wales are being encouraged to submit their claims for toll road rebates covering the final quarter of 2025, with potential payouts reaching hundreds of dollars per driver. This initiative comes as part of an ongoing effort to provide financial relief to commuters across the state.
Significant Financial Relief for Sydney Drivers
Since the introduction of a $60 weekly toll cap two years ago, more than $215 million has been returned to NSW motorists. The average payout stands at an impressive $309, highlighting the substantial impact of this cost-of-living measure. Transport Minister John Graham emphasised the importance of this support, stating that the response demonstrates how crucial the toll cap is for Sydney drivers.
"This reaction shows just how much Sydney drivers need the toll cap and why it was so important the government made this cost-of-living relief permanent," Graham said. He also thanked the 35,000 individuals who have already signed up for the rebate program in 2026, noting it as a positive start to their administrative tasks for the year.
Eligibility and Claim Process
To access these rebates, motorists must check their eligibility through the Service NSW website. The program includes a $5,000 annual limit and a fair-use cap of $400 per tag or licence plate, ensuring equitable distribution of funds. Graham explained that this system aims to bring fairness to Sydney's motorways, particularly for drivers who rely on toll roads out of necessity.
"This is all about fairness across Sydney. For drivers who need to take motorways and have no other choice but to clock up the tolls, we're putting a cap on it so they can balance the family budget and not be penalised for where they live," he added. The government is also continuing negotiations to secure better value for motorists and taxpayers alongside the toll cap.
Suburban Breakdown of Toll Relief
The suburbs with the highest average claims per driver include Lakemba at $644, Auburn at $634, Wiley Park at $560, Fairfield East at $539, and Cheltenham at $528. In terms of overall toll relief, Blacktown leads with $3.6 million, followed by Baulkham Hills at $3.4 million, Auburn at $3.2 million, and Merrylands at $3.0 million.
Other notable suburbs include Marsden Park with $2.8 million, Castle Hill at $2.7 million, Quakers Hill at $2.3 million, Lakemba at $2.2 million, and Kellyville at $2.1 million. Additionally, thirty suburbs across Sydney have received more than $1 million in claims, underscoring the widespread benefit of the rebate program.
Encouragement to Claim Rebates
Customer Service Minister Jihad Dib highlighted the timing of the rebate claims, noting that the holiday period can be financially challenging for many households. He urged motorists to take advantage of this opportunity to boost their budgets.
"This time of year can be especially challenging as holiday spending adds up, so this is your chance to claim the new round of rebates waiting to be returned to you," Dib said. "With the average claim amount being more than $300, it could be a welcome boost to your household budget and a great way to start 2026."
As the rebate window opens for the final quarter of 2025, NSW drivers are reminded to act promptly to secure their share of the financial relief designed to ease the burden of toll expenses.
