Page 193 - Week 01 - Wednesday, 14 February 2018

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(2) further notes that:

(a) the ACT Government undertook public consultation in 2017 on the next major update to the bus network and will soon commence phase two of this extensive public consultation into the new network;

(b) the introduction of the new Green Rapid required some changes to local services to ensure that public transport service coverage is balanced with high frequency rapid services that drive public transport patronage;

(d) patronage across the network has increased by 2% on each weekday and 10% on each weekend day since its implementation compared to the same period last year (as at 13 February 2018);

(e) the ACT Government provides the free Flexible Bus Service specifically for older Canberrans and people who have mobility impairments; and

(f) the ACT Government also provides free off-peak travel for Senior concession card holders; and

(3) calls on the ACT Government to:

(a) deliver on its election commitment to build an integrated transport network, including light rail, the introduction of five new rapid routes in 2018 and expanding the network to provide a better, seven day network;

(b) continue to consult with Canberrans on the design of the new bus network;

(c) ensure consideration is given to meeting the needs and inclusion of older Canberrans, people with limited mobility, and other transport vulnerable people; and

(d) ensure a mix of local bus services, rapid buses and continue the flexible transport options to provide an integrated transport network which is accessible for all.”.

I commend the amendment to the Assembly.

MS LE COUTEUR (Murrumbidgee) (4.49): I rise today in support of Ms Fitzharris’s amendments to Ms Lee’s motion, but I very much want to thank Ms Lee for bringing this important matter to the Assembly. I, too, had a number of concerned Canberrans contact me about last year’s minor network change, including the residents of Narrabundah in Ms Lee’s electorate of Kurrajong. This motion is evidence of the value of community awareness, activism and engagement with your local members as a way of ensuring that your issues are listened to and dealt with. So I very much thank Ms Lee for this.

As Ms Lee so rightly points out, many people use the bus because they cannot drive. They might have mobility issues, be older people or for various economic or medical reasons be unable to get around any other way. And with every change, there are going to be winners and loser and there is unfortunately almost always a trade-off. We

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