There has been growing chatter online about refusing to pay road user charges as diesel prices climb, but such a move would expose motorists to fines and would likely provide limited financial relief for many rural operators and farmers.
What people are proposing and why
Several social media groups have suggested withholding RUC payments in protest as the retail price of diesel rises above other fuel types. One group, Stand Up to RUCs, has gathered a membership in the low thousands. The push comes as diesel prices reached an average of $3.89 a litre, while 91-octane petrol averaged $3.48 a litre, according to crowdsourced fuel app figures quoted on Monday.
Those backing a boycott argue the government could temporarily suspend or reduce RUCs to ease costs on the food and freight sectors. The reasoning is that diesel users already face higher per-litre costs at the pump and must also buy distance-based RUC credits, whereas petrol purchases include excise tax within the pump price.
How RUCs work and penalties for non-payment
Road user charges are levied on vehicles that use diesel and other fuels not subject to excise at the pump, as well as on heavier vehicles that cause more road wear. The charge is based on distance travelled and vehicle weight. For many passenger-style light diesel vehicles the prevailing rate is $76 per 1000 kilometres.
Failing to hold valid RUC for the distance driven carries enforcement consequences. Drivers can be hit with a $200 police fine, plus a 10 percent penalty if outstanding fees remain unpaid after two months, and an additional 10 percent if they remain unpaid after three months.
Views from motoring and farming groups
Terry Collins, AA fuel spokesperson, told a public forum that RUCs fund the upkeep of roads and bridges used by vehicles, and that the charges are not an unfair add-on simply because diesel prices are high. He said drivers of different powertrains contribute toward road maintenance through the mechanisms applied to their fuel type, and that the core issue is the high cost of diesel itself rather than the principle of RUCs.
