CityLink Has Rebranded And Is Changing How Much it Charges Customers for Tolls
Some fees have dropped, but a new credit card fee has also been introduced.
Transurban, Australia's toll road giant, is in the process of overhauling its road fee system – and Melbourne's CityLink system is seeing some big changes.
If you use Melbourne's toll roads and have an e-TAG as a constant little travel buddy, chances are you have a CityLink account — and things are looking a bit different for you. Your CityLink account is now called a Linkt account, and the website has an entirely new look – but, your login details will remain the same. The overhaul doesn't end with the name change and rebrand, however, so down to the important stuff: fee changes.
For those with an e-TAG, the tag non-return fee (if the tag is lost or stolen) has been reduced from $55 to $15. For Everyday or Taxi accounts, there won't be a minimum yearly payment per tag of $27.50 anymore, saving you money if you're an occasional traveller. And, for Everyday and Access accounts, the 'vehicle matching fee' — which is charged each time you use a toll road — will be lowered from $0.75 per trip to $0.55.
But there's also something else to consider in terms of the overhaul that isn't as good news for motorists: a new transaction fee that Transurban is introducing for those who pay with a Visa or Mastercard. Starting from September 1, this surcharge already applies to those who pay with AMEX or Diners Club. If you're not about this, perhaps sort out a direct debit – you can on the new website.
The changes come amidst accusations that parent company Transurban has been making millions of dollars in profit by charging customers unnecessary and expensive fees.
CityLink consists of three tolled roads across Melbourne: Southern Link, Monash Freeway between Southbank and Malvern; Western Link, Tullamarine Freeway between Port Melbourne and Strathmore; and Batman Avenue, between Flinders Street and Olympic Boulevard.
They'll also be rolling out a new app which will let travellers pay fees on the spot on a trip-by-trip basis. And, be aware if you're needing to contact them – their contact details have changed, including their phone number. Full details on the changes here.
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