RAC has welcomed funding for transport and road safety initiatives across our state in this year’s WA Budget.
The State Budget allocated $175 million in 2023/24 and a further $107.2 million in 2024/25 for the life-saving Regional Road Safety Program, bringing the total joint commitment from state and federal governments to more than $1 billion.
“We welcome continued investment in low-cost road safety upgrades for our regional communities, which are aimed at helping to save lives and prevent serious injuries across our state,” RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said.
Expenditure through the Asset Investment Program, which includes funding for projects such as the Albany Ring Road and Bunbury Outer Ring Road, is forecast to drop from $2 billion in 2024/25 to $646 million in 2027/28.
“With several strategic road projects nearing completion, the budget appears to show future investment declining sharply over outer years,” Mr Golsby said.
“We look forward to seeing the WA Government’s plans for road infrastructure investment in the years ahead.”
The WA Budget includes significant investment in public transport.
“Ongoing investment in major rail infrastructure, the expansion of the CAT bus services, upgrades to the SmartRider system, and free fares for students are important for encouraging more public transport use,” Mr Golsby said.
“However, the budget does not appear to prioritise active transport initiatives that make it easier for people to walk or ride instead of drive.”
“RAC welcomes the additional $5.2 million investment in the State Government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle rebate scheme, which has already provided thousands of rebates for electric vehicle owners in WA.”
The Budget confirmed vehicle registration fees will rise 3.9 per cent. The Perth Parking Levy will have a closing balance of $170 million, growing to $273 million by 2027/28, signalling the need for a renewed focus on improving transport and pedestrian access to the Perth city centre.
ENDS
Media contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
