An RAC survey has found only 42 per cent of commuters are satisfied with their commute to work, with soaring population growth blamed for longer trips that are fuelling frustration.
The RAC Commuting and Congestion Survey – which surveyed 360 people – found commuter satisfaction has dropped by 20 per cent in 12 months.
The survey revealed 66 per cent believed population growth was causing congested roads, with 81 per cent saying congestion has worsened over the past year.
The average self-reported one-way commute for Perth drivers is now 37 minutes – seven minutes longer than two years ago.
Seventy-five per cent of people had witnessed heightened road rage and frustration as congestion levels peaked and 65 per cent believed the problem has negatively impacted well-being and stress.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said more investment into infrastructure and alternative modes of transport were key to ease congestion and to keep people moving around the city.
“Perth has experienced high population growth and the effect on the daily commute has been strongly felt by motorists,” Mr Golsby said.
“Sitting in traffic not only places a significant toll on our community’s health and wellbeing – it also hinders the State’s economic performance.
“Road network upgrades and improvements to public and active transport that keep pace with population growth are essential to ease the impact of congestion.”
Respondents thought population-fuelled congestion could be relieved by fixing pinch points at busy intersections, implementing general road upgrades and improving public transport.
“RAC welcomes recent measures implemented by the WA Government to ease congestion, including smart freeway technology and investment into new rail lines,” Mr Golsby said.
“However, we know in many cases upgrades to roads induces demand – meaning the extra capacity is eaten up over time by drivers who, ironically, want to benefit from reduced travel times.
“That’s why we need to see greater focus on encouraging commuters to reduce car trips whenever they can and opt to walk, ride or catch public transport instead.
“Recent initiatives offering free or cheaper public transport have been a good start.”
ENDS
Media contact: Haylee Ruwaard 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
