2020 Get Up Transport Infrastructure thread

[ozbob]

--> http://www.getup.org.au/2020/idea.php?ideaID=147

Have your say just follow the above link.

We are wasting vast amounts of money on providing for the motor vehicle. Our future and the planet's future depends on efficient, fast and sustainable land transport.

Rail is the solution for long-distance freight movement and for urban and inter-urban passenger transport. The current underfunding of rail infrastructure is a disgrace.

The Commonwealth Government should lead the way in taking action to ensure that the major share of transport investment goes into:

(a) a nation-wide network of fast freight lines linking the main cities and economic centres
(b) a very fast train, initially linking Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne
(c) urban passenger mass rail transport, heavy and light rail, in capital cities and other major urban areas.

There is no excuse. The economic, social and environmental case is overwhelming. Many of the plans already exist. Let's get on with it

[ozbob]

Summary from the forum feedback at the GetUp's 2020 Online Ideas Forum for Support development of rail infrastructure

Australia spends a huge amount of money investing in and maintaining our road system (for cars and freight transport) and
airport infrastructure. This is expensive, inefficient and environmentally unsustainable.

Rail is the solution for long-distance freight and passenger movement and for urban and inter-urban passenger transport.
Increasing traffic congestion and rising pollution has seen governments around the world turn to high-speed rail transit.
Significant levels of investment have been made by overseas governments to develop efficient, environmentally sustainable
technologies that can be adapted for the Australian context. The initial high level of investment will be repaid many times
over in the future, with reduced vehicle dependence, lower emissions and more efficient transport routes.

Australia?s existing rail infrastructure is ageing, limited and underfunded. The Federal Government must commit to
developing and funding rail at all levels; a truly national rail network (based on a standard gauge); high speed transit links
between major cities; and accessible urban passenger mass rail transport in capital cities and major urban areas. The highspeed
rail network must be integrated with our ports and shipping network and be powered by renewable electricity.

http://www.getup.org.au/