A newly-released study from the New Climate Council Analysis has revealed that over 1.2 million people living in Perth don’t have access to frequent, all-day public transport.
According to the report, Perth has been ranked as the second-worst among Australia’s largest capital cities in terms of public transport availability.
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The study outlines that the essential benchmark for public transport—services running every 15 minutes between 7am-7pm and within 800 metres of residential areas—is not met for more than half of Perth’s population.
Areas like Kwinana, Mandurah, and Armadale are being particularly affected, as the gaps in service are most pronounced.
Dr Jennifer Rayner, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Climate Council, has called for an enhanced investment in public transport in Perth.
“Currently, only one in five people in Perth rely on shared and active transport for their daily commute,” Dr Rayner said.
“This reflects the inadequate access to services that cater to the needs of our communities,” she said.
Dr Rayner said too many communities are being left in the lurch and unable to access services that meet their needs.
She also called for comprehensive government action to transform Perth into a city where fast, reliable, and eco-friendly transport options are readily available.
“We envision a transport network where residents can ‘turn up and go’ throughout the day,” she added.
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