Page 2751 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 16 August 2017
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I would really like to see the government address this as soon as there are people living there. Once you move into a new house you work out how you are going to do your transport. If there is no public transport you will get your patterns going and you will end up, when it is eventually provided, not using it.
In conclusion, I support Mr Steel’s motion. I think it is great that all parties in the Assembly are taking Canberra’s transport system very seriously. We are starting to put the intellectual energy and enthusiasm into creating a sustainable transport system for Canberra in the future, rather than just staying with the NCDC’s old car-based system.
MS CODY (Murrumbidgee) (10.49): It gives me great pleasure to rise today in support of Mr Steel’s motion on integrated public transport. In particular I would like to highlight how integrated transport can lend itself towards creating active and vibrant communities. I make no secret of the fact that being active has been a consistent part of my life. I am proud to say that since my childhood this city has come a long way in creating vibrant opportunities for sport, transport and inclusion.
Recently I was reminded of the ad that outlined the updated Australian Capital Territory internal omnibus network. The television commercial—
Mr Coe: Not “Feel the power of Canberra”?
MS CODY: That is it. The television commercial that ran highlighted the new routes, times and services for the new look bus network coming to Canberra. When watching this ad it took me back to when it was first aired in 1988. I was reminded of how far the ACTION network has come in a relatively short period of time.
Canberra is a great place to live and be active. With a longer life expectancy and lower rates of illnesses, the ACT prides itself on being the healthiest place in Australia. That is why the government is promoting active lifestyles through our integrated travel and active living agenda. Integrated travel incorporates physical activity into our daily routines leading to interactive communities while also addressing problems associated with a lack of exercise and obesity that are causing lifelong illnesses.
When people walk or cycle they have more social interactions and there is a collective reduction in hospital admissions and costs. By building activity into everyday life we incorporate much of what Canberrans value: open spaces, improved wellbeing and supportive community infrastructure.
With a number of city-wide programs under the active travel banner, the government is finding innovative and diverse ways to encourage activity through transport integrations such as cycling, walking, busing or, soon, hopping on the light rail. My interest in this space is longstanding and aligns with my passion for seeing Canberra become a healthy, active and sport-loving city.
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