A transport union is supporting the move to get cars off the road and onto a new rail network
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) says a new Labor party commitment to invest $2.1 billion in the Melbourne suburban rail loop will relieve traffic and congestion on the city’s primary freight routes.
According to RTBU national secretary Mark Diamond, the project will take the pressure off Melbourne’s road network by removing cars off the road, allowing for clearer roads for freight operators.
“Public transport projects like this provide people with access to affordable and convenient transport options so they don’t need to buy another car and drive it on Melbourne’s roads,” Diamond says.
“By investing in mass transit, governments can minimise transport-related emissions and reduce traffic congestion.”
Diamond says the $2.1 billion investment is much needed in Melbourne and is a contrast to the $1 billion upgrade to the Sydney to Newcastle rail corridor.
The RTBU describes the suburban rail loop as “a huge win for Victorians” – not just for public transport users but for transport operators too who can now reap the rewards of quieter roads when it comes to safety and efficiency.
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The RTBU says it wants the state and federal governments to ensure that the rail loop is fully staffed so it can be a long-term win and solution for freeing freight routes across the state.
To act, Diamond is urging all candidates in the federal election to sign a pledge showing their support for faster, better and safer freight transport networks.
Voters can see which candidates supported better transport by checking in on the RTBU campaign page over the course of the election campaign.