The Federal Government has released a discussion paper outlining proposals to sway more Australians to use greener transport
October 30, 2012
The Federal Government has called for feedback on its Walking, Riding and Access to Public Transport discussion paper, which outlines
ways to reduce urban congestion and encourage more Australians to use greener, healthier transport modes.
According to figures in
the discussion paper,
presented by Federal Transport Minister Anthony Albanese at the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC)
annual conference
in Canberra on Monday,
eight out of every ten commuting trips are
still taken via
car.
The discussion paper
looks at
ways to reduce the community’s dependence on cars, including better planning, new infrastructure and lifestyle changes.
It also proposes education programs and incentives to encourage greater participation in walking, riding and public transport.
Albanese says urban congestion is costing Australia $13 billion per year and is set to rise to $20 billion.
“Getting more people walking and cycling, particularly within 20 minutes of transport nodes and economic and educational hubs, as well as catching public transport, will not only ease congestion on our roads and improve air quality, but also lead to better public health outcomes,” he says.
The consultation period will run until January 31, 2013.
A copy of the discussion paper can be downloaded from www.infrastructure.gov.au/activetransport