Broadmeadows electorate bus services
Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (19:03): (1132) My adjournment is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport, and the action I seek is for the minister to fund additional bus services in my electorate, particularly on route 536. Transport equity has always been a priority for me, and I have advocated tirelessly over many years for improvements to public transport and to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. Bus services are particularly important for the many in my community who are not able to drive or afford a car. The electorate of Broadmeadows has the highest level of disability in the state, one of the lowest levels of car ownership and high levels of disadvantage. We also have lots of new arrivals, many shift workers, including those from female-dominated industries like health and aged care, and whenever I jump on a bus I always see lots of older people and of course children. So many local people rely on public transport to get around, to participate in community life, to access education and employment, to do their shopping and to access opportunities for social connection. I thank Andrea Bunting and community members who have contacted me about the need for more services on route 536, and I thank the minister for her strong advocacy for public and active transport.