The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) today released its election manifesto, Investing in Australia’s Transport Future, outlining the union’s transport infrastructure priorities around the country.
RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva also called for the establishment of a $30 billion Australian Commuter Trust to invest in new rail and public transport projects.
“The Australian Commuter Trust would provide low-cost funding to State Governments for major public transport projects, but States would need to repay the funding over time using value capture mechanisms.
“It would underpin a massive shift in the way we fund urban infrastructure, and kick-star a new era of productivity growth driven by more efficient cities.”
Stop the selfies
Mr Nanva said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull had initially raised expectations the Federal Government would reverse Tony Abbott’s roads-only infrastructure policy, but since taking the top job he had failed to deliver anything more than symbolic gestures.
“Malcolm Turnbull has proven to be more interested in taking photos of himself than funding real projects.
“Australian commuters are sick and tired of Malcolm Turnbull’s shallow brand of vanity politics. They just someone to fix their ride.”
The RTBU priority infrastructure projects include:
- Melbourne Metro rail tunnel
- Rail to Badgerys Creek
- AdeLINK tram network
- Perth MetroNet rail project
- Brisbane’s Cross River Rail
- ACT Light Rail
- Bus Rapid Transit for Hobart and Launceston
- Inland Freight Rail
