Tuesday, 17 October 2023

Western Victoria Region

Sarah MANSFIELD (Western Victoria) (15:36): (457) My question is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport. Last week a constituent sent me a video of their daily bike ride to the shops. The route takes them along so-called bike lanes which are really just a strip of paint on the road and a street sign. It was representative of the current road system, which endangers cyclists by forcing them to share with cars, trucks and buses. Consistent surveys have shown that many more Geelong residents would cycle if it was safe to do so. Geelong’s population is growing rapidly, and car dependence is deeply entrenched due to a lack of decent alternatives. Without investment in well-connected and safe cycling infrastructure we will see worsening congestion, declining livability and poorer health and environmental outcomes. When will the government prioritise safe active transport and deliver a comprehensive network of protected bike lanes in the Geelong region?