Barbara TH Yen, in The Conversation (22.10.14), discusses the relationship between property values, property development, and access to the Brisbane ferries system.
‘Traditional funding sources are becoming inadequate to meet public transport demands in Australian cities, despite the broad economic and social benefits public transport brings, such as cost savings associated with reduced traffic congestion, productivity through improved job creation, competitiveness and livability.
‘In 2013 around two-thirds of Australia’s population resided in a capital city. By 2061, the Australian Bureau of Statistics forecasts this proportion will increase to 74%. This population growth is creating pressure for public transport systems and infrastructure, and governments need to find alternative funding resources.
‘In Australia, governments face a funding shortfall, which is compounded by limited funding resources (low taxes) and competing priorities. Unfortunately, the federal government in Australia has in some cases ceased funding public transport projects.’