When it comes to driving, some states are definitely worse than others.
According to new research from iSelect, Victoria takes the title of Australia’s worst state for driving, with high motoring costs, congested roads, and subpar road quality making life a nightmare for drivers.
Victorians are facing a significant financial burden, with motoring costs eating up more than a quarter (26.28 per cent) of their average annual income.
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To put this into perspective, that’s a substantial chunk of their hard-earned cash going towards car-related expenses. And if that’s not enough, they’re also spending a whopping 84 hours stuck in rush hour traffic each year.
“iSelect’s research highlights the significant difference in road conditions and driving experiences across Australia,” iSelect General Insurance General Manager Adrian Bennett said.
“Unsurprisingly, the ACT comes out on top – as the most compact territory it has better managed roads, lower congestion and fewer fatalities.
“On the other hand, the Northern Territory has a stark contrast, with minimal traffic and alarmingly high fatalities. These findings are a reminder that safe driving is essential and having the right car insurance in place is crucial for protecting yourself and others on the road.
“At iSelect, we compare policies from a panel of insurers to help Aussies find the cover that best suits their needs and budget.”
It’s not just Victoria that’s struggling. Queensland and South Australia are also among the worst states for drivers. Queenslanders are shelling out 24.62 per cent of their average annual income on motoring costs, and they’re dealing with some of the worst road conditions in the country, with 211.92 defects reported per 100,000 of the population.
Meanwhile, South Australians are spending a staggering 85 hours stuck in traffic each year.
The research highlights the need for governments to invest in improving road infrastructure and reducing congestion. It’s time for policymakers to take action and make driving safer, more efficient, and less costly for Australians.
The Cost of Driving: A State-by-State Breakdown
- Victoria: 26.28 per cent of average annual income spent on motoring costs, 84 hours spent in rush hour traffic
- Queensland: 24.62 per cent of average annual income spent on motoring costs, 68.50 hours spent in rush hour traffic
- South Australia: 23.56 per cent of average annual income spent on motoring costs, 85 hours spent in rush hour traffic