"If you provide good alternatives for public transport, you won't have traffic problems." - Jaime Lerner

Transport is fundamental to our economic and social wellbeing. 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.

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.