An RAC survey has found up to 75 per cent of West Australians support higher density living coupled with better public transport to tackle the state’s travel challenges, as population growth soars.
The survey of 310 RAC members revealed 75 per cent supported urban infill with 68 per cent supporting density development in the right locations.
Seventy-four per cent also said expanded and improved public transport could manage travel challenges fuelled by population growth.
Figures released last week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show Western Australia’s population grew 2.5 per cent – in the 12 months to 30 September 2024 – making it the nation’s fastest growing for two years running.
The state’s population sits at 2.98 million, according to the same ABS figures, with estimates indicating it may have now already surpassed 3 million.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said smart urban planning is key to managing transport challenges as Perth’s population is tipped to climb to 3.5 million by 2050.
“To meet population and travel demands, careful consideration around transport needs and housing is paramount – the key is better connecting communities,” Mr Golsby said.
“Urban planning which incorporates higher density living with better public transport links around activity centres helps manage unnecessary car trips, congestion and travel time.
“Currently many employment opportunities are in Perth’s CBD, so urban spawl into outer suburbs that aren’t as well serviced by public transport adds to pressure on roads in peak periods.”
Only 36 per cent of survey respondents supported clearing more land on Perth’s fringe for development, with environmental impact, insufficient infrastructure and transport constraints seen as major drawbacks.
Just four per cent of people in Perth’s North West, North East and South Metropolitan Peel took public transport to get to work or study and only three per cent said they walked their kids to school or daycare.
Higher public transport and active travel was evident in Perth’s central sub-region – characterised by suburbs typically within 20km of the CBD with more developed public transit networks – with 20 per cent using public transport to commute and 17 per cent walking to school or daycare.
Despite this difference, 90 per cent of respondents in the central sub-region still used their cars for shopping, medical appointments, recreation and visiting family and friends, matching the rest of Perth.
“The survey shows we need to seek opportunities to better connect Perth in ways that encourage alternative modes of transport,” Mr Golsby said.
"This includes exploring more urban infill opportunities around activity centres and public transport hubs.”
ENDS
Media contact: Haylee Ruwaard, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
