ATA seeks answers on NSW Labor plan

The Australian Trucking Association says it's yet to gain any clarity regarding a NSW Labor plan to increase stamp duty on vehicles costing more than $100,000, and whether the tax hike would apply to trucks.

With the NSW state election just around the corner (March 23), NSW Labor is yet to clarify whether or not the increase would apply to trucks, the move potentially adding an extra $9000 to the cost of a $350,000 prime mover, where the stamp duty would total $25,600.

"Labor Leader Michael Daley has been unable to explain the tax, leaving the trucking industry in the dark," said ATA councillor and Border Express director, Jon Luff.

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Mr Luff said an increase in stamp duty on trucks would be disastrous for safety, the NSW economy and the environment.

"In urban areas like Western Sydney, we need more new, cleaner trucks, not less," he said.

"New trucks must meet new, cleaner emission standards and are more fuel efficient. Compared to a truck purchased in 1996, a new truck purchased today emits 75 per cent less nitrogen oxide, 50 per cent less hydrocarbons and 92 per cent fewer particulates."

Shadow Treasurer Ryan Park recently issued a statement citing that farm vehicles such as harvesters and tractors would be exempt under the policy, but conspicuously did not exempt trucks.

"The 16,000 hardworking trucking businesses in New South Wales deserve answers," Mr Luff said.

"Trucks are critical to the NSW economy and slapping taxes on trucks only makes it harder for businesses to compete in a global economy.

"Ninety-seven per cent of trucking companies are small businesses, based in regional towns and places like Western Sydney.

"Trucks are not a luxury. They are a necessity, relied upon by every single Australian."