Bunbury has been named as the most expensive regional city in the country for transport costs, according to the Australian Automobile Association’s latest Transport Affordability Index.
The quarterly report revealed transport costs for the average Bunbury household had increased by $379 a year to $15,300, which saw the South West city overtake Geelong as the most expensive region in Australia.
Bunbury MLA Don Punch said fuel retailers should be questioned regarding high petrol costs with neighboring towns including Busselton up to eight cents cheaper.
“The Automobile Association of Australia Report was commenting on the increase to transport cost in Bunbury and it is important to note all significant increases were on goods and services provided by the private sector, not government fees and charges,” he said.
“The government is working towards reducing transport costs in Bunbury by providing good transport links and options for public transport that reduce congestion and time spent in cars.
“In the meantime, I urge people to check fuel watch and to make sure they shop around and get the best deal possible when it comes to servicing and insurance.”
RAC corporate affairs manager Will Golsby said the report highlighted the increasing and ongoing financial burden of transport on WA households.
“Every year, WA families are facing increased financial pressures to move around their communities,” he said.
“Transport costs in our state have been on the rise for a number of years and households are continuing to pay more to register their vehicle, renew their driver’s licence and to use public transport.
“Over the past two years, vehicle registration fees alone have increased by more than 10 per cent.
“These ongoing and substantial fee increases continue to place great financial pressure on WA families with the cost of motoring remaining a high priority issue for RAC and our members.”
The Australian Automobile Association report follows the State Budget announcement, which included an increase of 5.8 per cent to vehicle registration fees.