Complete Guide to Australian Toll Roads in 2025
Australia's toll road network has expanded dramatically over the past two decades, with electronic tolling now the standard across all states. Unlike many countries, Australia has no cash toll booths—every toll road operates purely on electronic payment systems. This can catch international visitors and even interstate travelers off guard, leading to unexpected penalty fees and confusion.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about navigating Australia's toll roads in 2025. From understanding the different state-based systems to calculating costs and choosing the right payment method, we'll help you avoid costly mistakes and save money on your Australian road trips.
Key Facts About Australian Tolls
🚫 No cash payments accepted anywhere—100% electronic tolling
📍 Three separate systems across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane
💰 Average toll road trip in Sydney: $20-40
⚠️ Penalties for non-payment: $10-20 per trip plus toll amount
🌏 Most toll roads concentrated in NSW, VIC, and QLD
For Locals
Get an electronic tag for your regular routes. Sydney residents save up to 40% with toll relief programs for frequent users.
For Visitors
Use a visitor pass or temporary toll account. Most rental cars don't include toll payment—you'll need to arrange this separately.
For Business
Corporate accounts available with bulk discounts, detailed reporting, and GST-compliant invoicing for tax purposes.
State-by-State Toll Systems
Australia operates three main toll road systems, each managed by different operators. Understanding which system covers your route is crucial for setting up the right payment method.
New South Wales (Sydney)
Most TollsOperators & Roads
Transurban (Multiple Roads)
M2 Hills Motorway, M5 South West Motorway, M7 Westlink, Eastern Distributor, Cross City Tunnel, Lane Cove Tunnel, Military Road E-Ramp
WestConnex (Multiple Roads)
M4 Motorway (Parramatta to Haberfield), M8 Motorway (Kingsgrove to St Peters)
Other Operators
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour Tunnel, M1 Eastern Distributor
Payment Options
Toll Relief: NSW offers a rebate scheme providing up to $750/year for frequent toll road users spending over $375/quarter.
Victoria (Melbourne)
CityLinkToll Roads
CityLink (Transurban)
West Gate Freeway, Tullamarine Freeway, Monash Freeway sections - 22km total
EastLink
Connects Eastern Freeway to Frankston Freeway - 39km
Payment Options
Important: CityLink and EastLink are separate systems. A CityLink pass doesn't work on EastLink and vice versa.
Queensland (Brisbane)
Go ViaToll Roads
Gateway Motorway
Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges, Gateway Extension
Legacy Way
Western Freeway tunnel connecting north and south
Go Between Bridge
Connects inner city areas
AirportlinkM7
Airport tunnel route
Payment Options
Warning: Video tolling (no tag) costs 35% more than tag rates in Queensland. Get a tag to avoid overpaying.
Interstate Compatibility
Most modern toll tags work across all Australian toll roads. A Linkt or E-Toll tag from NSW will work in Melbourne and Brisbane.
Cross-Compatible Tags:
- • Linkt (works nationwide)
- • E-Toll (works nationwide)
- • Go Via (works nationwide)
Major Toll Roads & Costs
Toll costs vary significantly depending on the road, time of day, and vehicle class. Here are the typical costs for passenger vehicles on major routes.
Sydney Toll Roads
Sydney Harbour Bridge/Tunnel
$4.60Peak hour, southbound only. Off-peak: $3.70
M2 Hills Motorway (Full length)
$8.86Windsor Road to Lane Cove Road
M4 Motorway
$7.75Parramatta to Haberfield (WestConnex)
M5 South West Motorway
$6.40Beverly Hills to Prestons
M7 Westlink (Full length)
$9.6640km orbital motorway
Eastern Distributor
$8.70Rushcutters Bay to Airport
Cross City Tunnel
$6.20Darling Harbour to Rushcutters Bay
Typical Sydney Cross-City Trip
Example: North Shore to Airport via Harbour Bridge + Eastern Distributor
Daily commute cost: ~$266/month (20 working days)
Melbourne Toll Roads
CityLink - Full Route
$10.36Entire 22km route (Tullamarine to South Melbourne)
CityLink - Partial Trip
$3.84Southern Link or Western Link only
EastLink (Full length)
$8.95Ringwood to Frankston (39km)
EastLink - Short Trip
$2.89Single section journey
Airport to CBD Trip
Tullamarine Airport to Melbourne CBD via CityLink
Note: Melbourne Airport itself has no access toll
Brisbane Toll Roads
Gateway Motorway (One way)
$5.66With Go Via tag. Video toll: $7.64
Legacy Way Tunnel
$5.41With Go Via tag. Video toll: $7.30
AirportlinkM7
$5.66With Go Via tag. Video toll: $7.64
Go Between Bridge
$1.69With Go Via tag. Video toll: $2.28
North to South Brisbane Trip
Using Gateway Motorway + AirportlinkM7
⚠️ Peak vs Off-Peak Pricing
Some toll roads charge different rates based on time of day:
Peak Hours: Weekdays 6:30-9:30am and 4:00-7:00pm
Off-Peak: All other times including weekends
Price Difference: Typically 15-25% higher during peak times
How to Pay Tolls
There are several ways to pay for toll roads in Australia, each with different costs and convenience levels.
E-Tag / Toll Tag
Best ValueHow It Works
A small electronic device attached to your windshield that automatically pays tolls as you drive through toll points.
- ✓ Lowest toll rates (standard pricing)
- ✓ Works on all Australian toll roads
- ✓ Automatic account top-up available
- ✓ Detailed transaction history
Costs & Setup
Popular Providers
Linkt (Transurban)
Most popular, works nationwide, good mobile app
E-Toll
NSW government option, competitive pricing
Go Via
Queensland-based, works nationwide
Visitor Pass / Day Pass
For TouristsHow It Works
Purchase a pass online or via phone that covers unlimited travel on specific toll roads for a set period.
- ✓ No physical tag required
- ✓ Valid for 24 hours or multiple days
- ✓ Purchase before or after travel (within 3 days)
- ✗ More expensive for heavy usage
Pass Options & Costs
Unlimited Sydney toll road usage
Best for short visits
CityLink only
Multiple trips over 3 days
Tip: Calculate whether a pass or pay-as-you-go is cheaper. If making 3+ trips, a pass usually saves money.
Video Tolling / License Plate
Most ExpensiveHow It Works
If you drive through a toll point without a tag or pass, cameras photograph your license plate and send you an invoice.
- ✗ 35-50% more expensive than tag rates
- ✗ Administration fees ($1-3 per toll)
- ✗ Invoice arrives weeks later
- ✗ Penalties if not paid on time
Cost Comparison Example
Gateway Motorway Brisbane (one way):
Warning: Video tolling should be avoided. Even for one-off trips, setting up a temporary account is cheaper.
E-Tag Provider Comparison
Choosing the right toll account provider can save you money. Here's a detailed comparison of the major options.
| Feature | Linkt | E-Toll | Go Via |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tag Deposit | $0 (free tag) | $40 (refundable) | $0 (free tag) |
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $1.65 | $0 |
| Min. Balance | $20 | $40 | $20 |
| Coverage | All Australian tolls | All Australian tolls | All Australian tolls |
| Mobile App | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Auto Top-Up | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Multiple Vehicles | ✓ Same account | ✓ Same account | ✓ Same account |
| Statement Download | ✓ Free | ✓ Free | ✓ Free |
| Best For | Regular users | NSW residents | QLD residents |
💡 Recommendation
For most users, Linkt is the best choice due to its free tag, no monthly fees, excellent app, and widespread availability. E-Toll is good for NSW government preference, while Go Via is popular in Queensland.
All three work nationwide and offer similar toll rates. The main differences are in fees and user experience.
Guide for Visitors & Interstate Travelers
Visiting Australia or traveling interstate? Here's everything you need to know to avoid toll-related stress and penalties.
International Visitors
Before You Arrive
- 1. Check rental car policy: Most don't include toll payment. Ask about their toll program costs.
- 2. Set up a temporary account: Linkt offers visitor accounts you can set up online before arrival.
- 3. Download the app: Having the Linkt or E-Toll app ready makes setup easier.
Rental Car Toll Programs
Rental companies charge steep fees for toll services:
Daily toll service fee: $3.30-8.80/day (charged even if you don't use tolls)
Administration fee: $3-5 per toll transaction
Total markup: Can be 200-300% above standard toll costs
💰 Better Option
Set up your own temporary toll account: Use the rental car's license plate to register for a Linkt visitor account or purchase day passes as needed. This can save $50-200 on a week-long rental.
Interstate Travelers
Your Existing Tag Works!
Good news: If you have a toll tag from any Australian state, it works nationwide. Your Linkt, E-Toll, or Go Via tag will work in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
What to do:
- • Ensure your account has sufficient balance
- • Check your tag is properly mounted
- • Update your license plate if you've changed vehicles
Don't Have a Tag?
Options for tag-free interstate travel:
Option 1: Get a free tag from Linkt or Go Via before your trip (delivered in 3-5 days)
Option 2: Purchase day passes for your destination city
Option 3: Set up a tag-free account using your license plate (higher fees apply)
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Assuming you can pay cash: No toll booths exist in Australia
❌ Relying on rental car toll programs: They're 2-3x more expensive
❌ Ignoring toll notices: Penalties escalate quickly ($10 to $180+)
❌ Not checking your account balance: Negative balance = penalty fees
❌ Using wrong license plate: Update your account when changing vehicles
Toll Cost Estimator
Use these examples to estimate your toll costs for common routes.
Sydney Routes
Airport to North Shore
Via Eastern Distributor + Harbour Bridge
$13.30
Parramatta to Sydney CBD
Via M4 + Cross City Tunnel
$13.95
Western Sydneyto Northern Beaches
Via M7 + M2
$18.52
Airport to Western Suburbs
Via M5 + M7
$16.06
Melbourne Routes
Airport to CBD
Via CityLink
$10.36
Eastern Suburbs to CBD
Via EastLink + CityLink
$19.31
Frankston to Airport
Via EastLink + CityLink
$19.31
Western Suburbs to South
Via CityLink only
$3.84
Brisbane Routes
Airport to CBD
Via AirportlinkM7
$5.66
North to South Brisbane
Via Gateway Motorway
$5.66
Western Route
Via Legacy Way
$5.41
Gold Coast to Brisbane
Via Gateway Motorway
$5.66
Long Distance
Sydney to Newcastle
Via M1 and M2
$12.40
Sydney to Wollongong
Via M5
$6.40
Brisbane to Sunshine Coast
Via Bruce Highway (no tolls)
$0
Online Toll Calculators
For precise cost estimates on your specific route:
Linkt Trip Calculator: linkt.com.au/toll-calculator
Transurban Trip Planner: transurban.com/trip-planner
Google Maps: Shows toll costs when you plan routes (select "show toll prices")
Money-Saving Tips & Strategies
Follow these strategies to minimize your toll expenses while driving in Australia.
For Regular Users
1. Apply for Toll Relief (NSW)
If you spend over $375/quarter on tolls, you can claim back 40% as a rebate. Maximum $750/year. Apply through Service NSW.
2. Use Off-Peak Times
Save 15-25% by traveling outside peak hours (before 6:30am or after 7pm weekdays).
3. Plan Alternative Routes
Sometimes a slightly longer non-toll route saves money. Use Google Maps to compare toll vs non-toll options.
4. Carpool or Use HOV Lanes
Some toll roads offer discounts or free passage for vehicles with 3+ occupants during peak times.
For Occasional Users
1. Get a Free E-Tag
Even if you rarely use tolls, having a Linkt or Go Via tag (free) ensures you get standard rates instead of video toll penalties.
2. Buy Day Passes Strategically
If making 3+ trips in one day, a day pass is usually cheaper than paying per toll.
3. Keep Account Active
Maintain a small balance to avoid account reactivation fees. Even $10-20 keeps it open.
4. Monitor for Free Toll Periods
Some toll roads occasionally offer free passage during maintenance or special events.
For Visitors
1. Avoid Rental Car Toll Programs
Set up your own account using the rental car's license plate. Save $50-200 per week.
2. Calculate Pass vs Pay-Per-Toll
A 3-day pass might seem expensive but can be cheaper than 4+ individual tolls.
3. Use Public Transport for Airport
Sydney and Brisbane airports have excellent train connections that avoid toll costs entirely.
4. Plan Your Route in Advance
Know which roads have tolls before you go. Use Google Maps with "avoid tolls" option to see alternatives.
For Business Users
1. Set Up Corporate Account
Business accounts offer consolidated billing, multiple vehicle management, and GST invoices.
2. Claim Tax Deductions
All business-related toll expenses are tax-deductible. Download statements monthly for your accountant.
3. Track by Vehicle/Employee
Assign tags to specific vehicles or staff for accurate expense tracking and reimbursement.
4. Negotiate Fleet Discounts
If you have 10+ vehicles, contact toll operators about volume discounts (typically 5-10% off).
What NOT to Do
Ignore toll notices - Penalties escalate from $10 to $180+
Use video tolling regularly - You'll pay 35-50% more than tag users
Forget to update license plates - Wrong plate = failed toll detection
Let your account go negative - Incurs penalty fees and admin charges
Assume all highways are toll-free - Many major routes have tolls
Annual Savings Summary
By following these tips, here's how much you can save:
Daily Commuter
$1,200+
Using toll relief + off-peak
Weekly User
$400+
E-tag vs video tolling
Visitor (1 week)
$150+
Own account vs rental program
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay tolls with cash in Australia?
No. Australia has no cash toll booths. All toll roads use electronic payment systems only.
What happens if I drive through a toll without paying?
Cameras will photograph your license plate and send you an invoice with the toll amount plus a $10-20 administrative fee. You have 3 days to register and pay before penalties increase.
Do I need different tags for different states?
No. Modern toll tags (Linkt, E-Toll, Go Via) work on all Australian toll roads nationwide.
How do I know if a road has tolls?
Toll roads are clearly signposted with blue "TOLL" signs. Google Maps also shows toll roads in orange and can calculate toll costs.
Can I get a refund if I don't use all my prepaid balance?
Yes. When you close your account, any remaining balance is refunded to your nominated bank account or credit card within 10-14 days.
Are motorcycles charged the same as cars?
No. Motorcycles typically pay 40-50% less than cars on most toll roads. You still need a tag or account though.
Final Thoughts
Australian toll roads can seem complex at first, but once you understand the system, they're straightforward to navigate. The key takeaways: get an electronic tag or temporary account before you travel, avoid video tolling surcharges, and if you're a frequent user in NSW, definitely apply for the toll relief rebate.
For most drivers, a free Linkt tag is the simplest solution—it works nationwide, has no monthly fees, and ensures you always get the best rates. Visitors should set up their own temporary account rather than using expensive rental car toll programs.
With proper planning and the right payment method, you can navigate Australia's toll roads efficiently and cost-effectively, whether you're a daily commuter, interstate traveler, or international visitor exploring the country.
About the Author
Michael Fraser is an Australian transport consultant and travel writer who has spent over 15 years helping drivers navigate toll roads efficiently. Based in Sydney, he specializes in cost optimization strategies for both personal and commercial vehicle users.
Michael has written extensively for Australian automotive publications and provides consulting services to businesses looking to reduce their fleet toll expenses.