The Brisbane City Council is considering introducing a toll on the Story Bridge to help fund extensive restoration works needed for the 85-year-old structure, which an independent report has indicated will require ongoing maintenance until 2040. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted the necessity for financial support from both state and federal governments during a conversation with 4BC’s Peter Fegan.
Schrinner noted that current funding mechanisms are insufficient, stating that revenues from vehicle registrations go to the state government, with no contribution to the council or the bridge’s upkeep. He explained the disproportionate distribution of tax revenue, where local governments receive a mere 3 cents per dollar compared to 16 cents for state governments and 81 cents for the federal government. This financial structure hampers the council’s ability to manage significant projects independently.
He drew a parallel with the toll on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, managed by the New South Wales government, contrasting this with the Story Bridge, which was initially constructed by the Queensland government and later handed over to local council maintenance. However, he pointed out that the council lacks the authority to impose a toll; only the state government has that power.
Schrinner acknowledged that implementing a toll would be a last resort, emphasising that if state and federal assistance does not materialise, it might be the only feasible option left. He expressed confidence that Premier David Crisafulli recognises the urgent need for the bridge’s repairs and trust in achieving a positive outcome.
Ongoing maintenance is already part of the council’s agenda, but there is a shift from simple upkeep to comprehensive restoration. Schrinner noted that while initial restoration efforts are underway, each step has revealed further corrosion and damage, highlighting the need for a sustained commitment to the bridge’s future.
In summary, the need for a toll on the Story Bridge is under consideration due to financial constraints faced by the Brisbane City Council in funding urgently required restoration works. The Mayor is appealing for support from higher government levels, stressing that without collaboration, imposing a toll may become necessary. Meanwhile, maintenance has transitioned into more extensive restoration efforts in light of discovering ongoing structural concerns.