Congestion and the increasing cost of living are driving more Western Australians to ditch their cars for the train or bus, according to a new RAC survey.
A survey of more than 750 RAC members found more than one in four, or 27 per cent, say they’re catching public transport more often.
Of those respondents changing the way they commute, 33 per cent said it was to cut costs, while 34 per cent made the switch to avoid congestion.
RAC Head of Communications Rhys Heron said it’s a sign WA’s daily commute is changing.
“The cost of driving has increased, and we’re seeing that reflected in the way commuter behaviour is shifting,” Mr Heron said.
"The price of fuel is making it harder for commuters to fill up the tank, and it's unclear how long this will continue."
“We know catching the train, bus or ferry can reduce the stress of the work commute, but it’s also a great way to find savings in the household budget.”
More than 30 per cent of respondents said they were using public transport more, since the WA Government’s two-zone fare cap was introduced.
“Public transport is also becoming more accessible in some areas through new rail lines, upgraded trains and stations, and new bus routes,” Mr Heron said.
However around 40 per cent of respondents said the biggest barrier to using public transport was services not going where they needed or not being frequent enough.
“Nearly a third of people said they couldn’t catch public transport because it takes too long to get where they’re going,” Mr Heron said.
RAC has called on the WA Government to increase investment in bus priority measures to attract more passengers.
“Ensuring public transport is also well connected outside the CBD and close to everyday destinations is critical to encouraging more use,” Mr Heron said.
“More trips by bus or train instead of car, can reduce travel costs, ease congestion, lower vehicle emissions and contribute to a healthier, more liveable Perth."