RAC launches public transport survey

13 October 2009

The RAC has today launched its 2009 Public Transport Survey to help gauge what Western Australians think about Perth’s bus and train system.

This new public transport survey will help determine if any improvements have been made over the past 18 months.

RAC Head of Member Advocacy Matt Brown said last time the survey was conducted, 70 per cent of respondents identified difficulties or concerns using the system.

“These issues ranged from passenger safety, overcrowding on trains and the lack of parking at train stations to infrequency of bus services and poor connections between public transport modes,” Mr Brown said.

“We know that there have been improvements to the public transport system with the addition of new trains and more spaces for parking at some stations but has this been seen by public transport customers or is increased usage outpacing the improvements that are being made?”

Mr Brown said the RAC was committed to ensuring the mobility of all Western Australians and improved public transport would help to achieve this.

“Safety was highlighted as an issue 18 months ago on some services and it has also been in the media spotlight recently,” Mr Brown said.

“Do people feel safe on our buses and trains following a number of high profile attacks on bus drivers? Do they have enough options to catch public transport at off-peak times or is night-time travel not an option due to security concerns?

“We also want to know about people who don’t have access to public transport so we can identify the public transport black spots in Perth.”

The survey results will be used to assess the current state of WA’s public transport and to lobby for improvements where they’re needed.

The survey can be completed at www.rac.com.au/publictransport. The survey closes Monday 2 November.

Download the release (pdf)