RAC will today join motoring clubs across Australia to launch a national campaign to keep the country moving.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs, Will Golsby, said the Keep Australia Moving campaign will remind federal candidates that investment in WA transport projects is critical for the future strength of the country’s economy.
“We cannot have the economy of the future relying on the transport systems of the past,” he said.
“RAC’s involvement in the campaign will help put a spotlight on critical Western Australian transport projects that need funding to tackle congestion and help the community move around our State safely, easily and sustainably.
“We’ll be calling on candidates to commit to a fairer share of funding for our State and to invest in the critical transport projects we need to keep WA on the move.”
Mr Golsby said the impacts of congestion will continue to build momentum after the Federal Budget, announced earlier this month, failed to deliver any ‘game changers’ or innovative solutions, a trend that has continued across successive Governments.
“By 2031, seven of the 10 most congested roads in the country will be in Perth, including the top four roads, and the cost of congestion is estimated to be more than $16 billion a year,” he said.
“This is a major concern for Western Australians who are already feeling the effects of congestion, compounded by the lack of public transport options.
“Our regional transport infrastructure also needs increased investment to keep our communities connected.
“The warning signs are all there. WA needs investment in additional rail projects and real innovation by investing in the technology needed to deliver a smarter transport network.
“This includes city-shaping public transport infrastructure like Perth light rail, funding for managed freeways and intelligent transport systems to squeeze more out of the existing infrastructure.”
Mr Golsby said RAC also wanted candidates to commit to a fairer share by increasing Federal funding for WA transport projects.
“Western Australian motorists are already paying more than their fair share and increasing revenue from fuel excise continues to flow to Canberra, yet it is unclear when we can expect to see reform of long-term transport funding to ensure it is fair and sustainable,” he said.
The Keep Australia Moving campaign involves motoring clubs from across Australia, representing more than eight million members. More information about RAC’s federal priorities and key policies is available in the RAC Federal Priorities for Western Australia report.
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RAC will today join motoring clubs across Australia to launch a national campaign to keep the country moving.
