A regional transport authority could be funded if the share of mining royalties returned to the region is increased.
CFMEU Mining and Energy Division estimate that in the financial year 2010/2011 almost $1.8 billion will be paid to the NSW government in mining royalties. A huge chunk of that comes from the Hunter region. Yet, both major parties appear unable to commit to providing our rightful share of that staggering sum. This is money that could be used to improve our infrastructure, health and education. It could be used to improve our woeful public transport system to get people out of cars, reduce road congestion.
Part of the millions returned to the Hunter region could then be used to fund a regional transport authority, to bring together stakeholders and the community and plan the best possible outcomes for our communities. For too long, public transport planning has been Sydney-centric. This region, especially the Lake Macquarie area, is always the poor relation when it comes to allocating funding for public transport. There really is no viable public transport option. It is certainly not an attractive option for most people – to leave the car at home or park and ride on public transport.
A regional transport authority would have to be apolitical, focused on our region and populated not only by qualified transport planners but by local people who actually use or would use public transport. There must also real consultation with the community and ultimately be accountable to the community.
About Me
- Phillipa Parsons
- I am a Greens councillor on Lake Macquarie City Council. I am also the Greens candidate for Swansea in this upcoming 2011 NSW state election. My biggest motivator is ensuring sustainability. This must be the key word in decision making at all levels of government. We need investment in renewable 'clean' energy sources and begin a just transition from dirty coal that pollutes the air, affects the health of entire communities and contributes to climate chaos globally. We need to ensure that we protect our communities from over-developments and protect public space. We need to ensure public education and health are top of the list of funding priorities. I appreciate feedback so don't hold back if you have something constructive to contribute! The biggest question we all need to ask ourselves is "what will you tell your grandchildren you did to address these issues?"