Page 2742 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 16 August 2017
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
depot to be built in Phillip, stage 2 of light rail will transform Woden town centre into a public transport hub and provide a catalyst for regeneration after years of cuts and relocations of the federal public service.
We know that light rail is not just about moving people around the city; it is also about the opportunity it creates as a multiplier for both jobs and regeneration, particularly through transit-oriented development. I am excited that the government has already begun the public conversation and conducting consultation processes on the potential route alignments and stop locations for stage 2, and this will continue as the preferred route and business case are developed.
In conclusion, every mode of transport, from active travel to mass transit, is part of the ACT government’s integrated approach to keeping our citizens moving. Our traditional modes of transport are being enhanced and connected with new modes. The government is investing in the new technologies of the future, whether they be electric buses or electric and autonomous vehicles and, importantly, we are investing in a mass transit system fit for our growing city in light rail.
In building a better integrated transport system, the government is stimulating our economy and giving new local jobs, as well as regenerating our neighbourhoods; good reasons for all members of this place to get on board.
MR COE (Yerrabi—Leader of the Opposition) (10:14): The opposition welcomes another opportunity to talk about light rail. Whilst I think many people in this place would have thought that the conversation would largely cease, it is good to see that the debate in this chamber continues. It is not quite a weekly debate as it was last time but the occasional debate in which we are all well versed. Canberrans, of course, have been engaged in this subject for a few years. We contend the government’s mandate of 2012, but there is no doubt that light rail is happening and should happen between Gungahlin and the city as per the mandate of 2016. We will continue to scrutinise that project, as we will scrutinise all projects this government does, especially ones with such massive price tags, even a 10-figure price tag.
The Canberra Liberals believe efficient and cost-effective public transport forms an essential part of our city. We committed to undertake substantial reforms to the ACTION network during the last election, many of which have been adopted by the ACT government, and I hope many more are adopted over the coming years. I believe the contribution we made to bus rapid transit and to bus transit right across the city is one that has not ever been seen from an opposition in the ACT before.
Unfortunately, successive Labor governments have failed to deliver meaningful reforms to ACTION. That is why when you look at the statistics you see there were 10 million more passengers riding ACTION in 1989 than today. That is an extraordinary figure.
Ms Fitzharris: Trips.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video