RAC welcomes new Transport Minister

14 December 2010

The RAC has welcomed the appointment of Troy Buswell as Minister for Transport and has acknowledged and thanked Simon O’Brien for his efforts in the Transport portfolio.

RAC Head of Member Advocacy Matt Brown said Mr O’Brien had made a significant contribution in reforming the transport portfolio.

“The restructure of the administration of the transport portfolio was a bold and necessary reform,” Mr Brown said.

“Bringing together the various arms of the portfolio to work under a common framework has set-up the government to meet future transport challenges associated with a rapidly growing population.

“A number of major road projects have also been completed or commenced under Mr O’Brien’s management, including the Mandurah Entrance Road and the Reid Highway-Alexander Drive grade separation.

“It is understood that work is almost finalised on a Public Transport Master Plan. This is a major piece in the puzzle of how we will manage population growth in Perth.

“We would urge Mr Buswell to build on Mr O’Brien’s efforts by ensuring the plan remains on track for release early next year.”

Mr Brown said Mr Buswell would bring strong personal knowledge of road and road safety issues to the portfolio, drawing on his background in local government and as a country-based MP.

“From his time as Treasurer, Mr Buswell will have a detailed understanding of the financial pressures posed by what is a diverse portfolio covering road, rail, ports and public transport.

“The RAC looks forward to working with Mr Buswell on making Western Australia’s roads safer, strengthening public transport and finding ways to tackle congestion problems in and around Perth.”

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