Has there been a recent increase in taxes for Etihad redemptions using Velocity points?

I have been looking to book award seats BEY-AUH-SYD using Velocity points. Checked a few days ago and per person the fare was 65000 Velocity points + ~$234 in taxes/surcharges for economy. Checked again today (same flights/dates) and the fare is now 65000 points + $524.68. Doesnt seem to apply to bookings made using Etihad Guest miles- taxes are unchanged at $170 USD/$236 AUD. Similar increases to Business awards booked via Velocity- eg for AUH-SYD its now 104000 points + $714.58. Was this expected/announced?

Hi,

As far as I recall, there has been no recent changes to Etihad redemptions with Velocity points.

Velocity charges per Etihad sector (flight) U$50, 205, 300 for economy, business and first class. BEY-AUH-SYD would be 2 sectors. This is a Velocity charged surcharge. This will be on top of all airline and government charges that Etihad redemptions would charge.