Family First pushes for transport cash

THE Family First Party is urging the Federal Government to establish a national public transport fund to boost services around the nation.
The announcement was made in Dandenong last week by Family First senator Steve Fielding.
Senator Fielding said the Federal Government should invest $1 billion in the fund over five years, beginning with a $100 million commitment to improve services in outer suburban regions across Australia.
“Traditionally the Federal Government has not funded public transport but it should because services in the outer suburbs and regions are hopeless,” he said.
“Family First wants the Federal Government to provide $100 million for public transport infrastructure and capacity specifically in the outer suburbs and regional Australia, increasing to $1 billion annually in five years.”
Senator Fielding said outer suburban residents relied on cars because public transport was often so poor. “These families have been hardest hit by skyrocketing petrol prices and are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
“Public transport is a real option for those in the inner city but it needs to be a real option for families in the outer suburbs and regions as well. These families will use public transport when it meets their needs and is affordable which is why the Federal Government should substantially invest in public transport on top of state government funding.”
– Shaun Inguanzo