“Can’t someone else do it?” Turnbull Government shirks active travel responsibility

The Federal Government’s response to Australia’s new infrastructure plan is confused and contradictory, concluding that bikes and active travel have a huge future in Australia – but only if someone else pays for it.

While the Federal Government has supported Infrastructure Australia’s recommendation on the need to encourage a shift to safe, accessible walking and cycling transport, it put the responsibility back to state governments. 

Bicycle Network Chief Executive Officer, Craig Richards, said the response is a missed opportunity from the federal government.

“This was a chance to show leadership and seize the opportunity to focus more on bikes and other active transport as a way to address congestion, health and connectivity issues in Australia,’ said Mr Richards.

“If roads, rail and trucks are a federal responsibility, so are bikes.”

“Investing in quality separated __bike paths makes it easier for everyone to ride and helps solve our congestion and health problems at the same time. The federal government can’t ignore that.”

Bicycle Network also welcomed a review on road user charges, but called for better investment in infrastructure for bikes to accompany any strategies aimed at discouraging driving. 

“New strategies to manage congestion in our cities are desperately needed, but people need to have easily accessible alternative transport options,” Mr Richards added. 

“It’s clear that bikes reduce congestion, are environmentally friendly and deliver huge health benefits to the community.”