Brian Feeney writes in The Conversation (9.12.16) about how the Turnbull government is touting the economic benefits of an infrastructure agenda that neglects the other important functions of transport projects.
‘Growing the economy – not city planning – has become the government’s main rationale for building urban transport infrastructure.
‘Soon after becoming prime minister in September 2015, Malcolm Turnbull declared: “I will be an infrastructure prime minister”.
‘Subsequently, his government’s focus seems to be largely on infrastructure projects – including urban transport infrastructure – “which drive … growth and jobs”.
‘Transport infrastructure is seen as a facilitator of growth and competitiveness in our cities. This is where much of Australia’s economic growth is generated. But, while important, promoting economic growth is not transport’s only major function.’
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