RAC has welcomed funding in today’s State Budget for a number of important road and rail projects, however lower investment in road maintenance and continued increases to motoring fees remain a concern for WA drivers.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs, Will Golsby, said the Budget delivered on a number of election commitments.
“We welcome investment in projects to improve road safety in WA – including Indian Ocean Drive and Bunbury Outer Ring Road – however missing from the budget is funding for the completion of Albany Ring Road, which is urgently needed to address serious safety issues in the area,” Mr Golsby said.
"Substantial investment in rail for Perth’s northern suburbs will help alleviate congestion issues, although funding for a connection and station to serve the Morley strategic activity centre is still required.
“We also welcome ongoing funding for important road safety initiatives such as the election commitment for a Regional Enforcement Unit within WA Police.
“Much of the funding for major infrastructure projects is still subject to business case approval, so we’ll be seeking certainty from the State Government around the timings of these projects.”
The Budget also commits $20 million to the Principal Shared Path Program, however this funding does not kick in until 2020/21.
Mr Golsby said while the Budget delivered big on infrastructure spend, it looks to be accompanied by a reduction in future road maintenance spend and a hike to motoring fees.
“Just as important as funding new roads and rail is maintaining and repairing our existing road network – which is estimated to have an $845 million maintenance backlog.”
“Despite this considerable backlog, our concern is the budget will fail to address the maintenance task in the years ahead.
“Households are also continuing to pay more to register their vehicle, renew their driver’s licence and to use public transport.
“Over the last two years vehicle registration fees alone have increased by more than 10%.
“WA motorists are facing increased financial pressures to move around their State, with the cost of transport for the average family now exceeding $17,000 per year.”
RAC priorities for the 2018/19 State Budget included:
- A renewed and improved commitment to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads;
- Sustained and widespread investment in the public transport network
- Investment in projects to improve the operation of the existing road network
- A commitment to keep the cost of motoring and transport down
- Support for emerging vehicle technologies, most notably electric and automated vehicles; and
- The accelerated delivery of safe and connected infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists.
- ends -
RAC’s full State Budget Submission 18-19.
Media contact: Rhys Heron 0401 703 719
