The Australian Labor Party (ALP) has built a commitment to public transport investment into its National Platform and Constitution, developed
The Australian Labor Party (ALP) has built a commitment to public transport investment into its National Platform and Constitution, developed during the ALP National Conference in July.
The National Platform and Constitution forms the policy platform the ALP will take into the next federal election.
Key highlights in the platform include:
- A commitment to “safe, clean and efficient public transport” in major Australian cities as a critical component of “addressing the economic, environmental and social problem of urban congestion”.
“Labor recognises that all forms of transport have a role to play in moving people and freight, especially within our major cities,” the National Platform and Constitution reads. “It is essential that an efficient road and rail network, supported by a robust public transport system, co-exist in a way that make our cities more sustainable and liveable.”
To achieve this goal, Labor says it will:
- streamline and improve the regulation, operation and development of land transport policy
- work with the states and territories, the providers of public transport, to achieve greater use of all forms of public transport, thereby contributing to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and congestion in our major cities.
- identify and concentrate on those industries and activities that promise the best opportunities – examples might include urban transport, water management, alternative energy, information and communication technology, and health services.
- The promotion of less greenhouse-intensive forms of transport, including public transport, cycling and walking.
“Labor recognises the need to promote more transport choices and will pursue strategies to encourage alternative modes of transport, alternative fuels, greater fuel efficiency and lower average vehicle age,” the National Platform and Constitution reads.
“Labor notes that the whole community should play a role in climate change actions.
“This includes the role played by those in our community that deliver quality public services, like local government, water supply, electricity and public transport.
“These industries take actions every day in a range of services from recycling, water harvesting, demand management and much more.
“This is a significant role in making our community environmentally sustainable and fighting climate change. Labor recognises the role played by the broad community and asks the Government to continue to implement a broad range of climate change actions.”
- The belief that all Australians, regardless of where they live, should have reasonable and affordable access to services including:
- secure and appropriate housing
- transport
- basic utilities
- universal and affordable broadband facilities and mobile access
- quality education and training opportunities
- health and aged care
- financial services
- personal, family and social services
- employment services
- information on government programs and policies.
The Bus Industry Confederation says it will continue to remind the ALP about the contents of the National Platform and Constitution and how they can translate into solid policies for leadership in providing Australians in urban and regional centres with real transport choices.