Transport

Due to a combination of poor urban planning and inadequate public transport provision, Perth has become one of the most car-dependent cities in Australia. A recent survey of commuters across Australia found that Perth commuters were the highest users of private vehicles in the country, with 70 per cent of commuters opting to drive their cars to and from work. Perth is also highly dependent on its road network for the movement of freight. In 2008/09, rail accounted for just 15 per cent of the total freight volume. Because of its over-dependence on motor vehicles, Perth is facing significant environmental, social and economic impacts.

Transport accounts for 14 per cent of WA’s greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions from transport are on the rise. WA’s own Department of Transport warns that the burning of fossil fuels to produce energy for transport is contributing to an unprecedented increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Urgent action is needed to curb these emissions.

Transport is fundamental to our economic and social wellbeing. It is vital that our Government invests in sustainable transport initiatives to provide access for people and products in a way that has much less impact on our community and environment. Lynn is supportive of sustainable transport initiatives that facilitate efficient access, reduce the financial burden on commuters and the public purse, enhance community wellbeing and protect the environment.

Lynn is campaigning for:

• public transport, cycling and walking in urban areas to become the dominant modes of transport, by both provision of infrastructure and by developing urban areas where activities are in close proximity to home
• cleaner vehicles with lower greenhouse gas emissions
• the increased efficiency of rural and agricultural transport networks to secure transport in the food supply chain
• urban and regional planning that reduces the need for long distance freight transport and long distance commuting in favour of local economic development
• the integration of road, rail and sea freight and a shift in the freight balance from road to rail and shipping.

Useful Links:

• Greens (WA) Policy on Transport
• Greens (WA) Policy on Air Pollution
• Greens Policy on Sustainable Human Settlements
• Sustainable Transport Coalition of Western Australia - advocates and educates for or a more liveable, sustainable future through provision of access for people and products in a way that has much less impact on the community.
• Walk Score - find out how walkable your neighbourhood is.