CEO Message: The Queensland Election

Dear BQ Members,

The state government election now less than one week away.

In August and September, Bicycle Queensland met with members, people interested in cycling, communities and candidates across Queensland, advocating for a better deal for cyclists and scooter riders in the forthcoming election. We also wrote to the Minister and Shadow Minister for Transport and Main Roads to support better outcomes for riders through better policy, programs and funding. 

The Minister’s letter in response to our CEO cited the current government’s record of achievements in building active transport projects, but did not make any commitments to increased funding in future. The Shadow Minister acknowledged our letter.

Our discussions focused on the 7 key improvements that governments can make. These are:

1. Aim for 10% of trips by active transport by 2032 and commit 10% of the transport budget to making it happen.
2. Fill in the missing links in the network.
3. Maintain what is there already
4. Improve signage for safety and wayfinding
5. Look for cycle tourism opportunities
6. Engage with users
7. Build more shared paths and bikeways

In an election dominated by issues of youth crime, ambulance ramping, housing supply and the cost of living, cycling hasn’t rated much of a mention. When the major parties do talk about transport issues, its usually around “fixing” the Bruce highway and improving public transport. Big expensive items. Yet bike riding is for everyone everywhere and major improvements can be done for a fraction of the cost.

In the lead up to Saturday, we encourage everyone who has an interest in better outcomes for cycling and riding to contact their local candidates and let them know how important bike riding is to you and to all Queenslanders.

Regards

Alton