Roads Congress calls for whole of government national transport vision
November 11, 2009
Almost 300 delegates at the Australian Local Government Association's 2009 National Local Roads and Transport Congress meeting in Mackay have called for a detailed intergovernmental national strategic transport vision to respond to population projections of 35 million by 2049 and a doubling of freight volume by 2020.
"Our cities urgently need coordinated and integrated planning by the three levels of government to address the pressing issues of ageing and social inclusion, congestion and carbon emissions," ALGA President Cr Geoff Lake said. "I welcome the Federal Government's move into urban planning and public transport, however, in the foreseeable future, motor vehicles will continue to dominate transport and local government wants to see all levels of government on the front foot in planning for our future road and freight needs.
"Local government has responsibility for over 80% of Australian roads," Cr Lake said. "It is becoming increasingly difficult for local government to meet the funding needs associated with maintaining this vast national asset. As almost every trip begins and ends on a local road, appropriate investment in our local roads is essential for boosting the nation's productive capacity. Local government wants to work closely with the Commonwealth Government to secure an increased investment in our local road network."
In a Communique issued from the Congress, delegates have called for:
- Permanent funding for the Roads to Recovery program;
- The inclusion of local roads in any move to road user charges to ensure that any revenue raised is returned to councils for reinvestment in local roads;
- The Federal Government to establish an agreed set of indicators in consultation with local government to measure the condition and performance of the local road system; and
- The Federal Government to amend the graduated formula for the charging of Fringe Benefits Tax on motor vehicles to properly reflect government and community need to positively encourage reduced use of motor vehicles.
The Communique is available under 'Recent updates' at www.alga.asn.au
- Media contacts:
- Cr Geoff Lake, ALGA President on 0411645281
- Amanda Lynch, Director Government and Media Relations, ALGA - (0419) 123 862
