With Dr Annemarie Christie, Labor Candidate for Riverstone.
On Sunday, Labor announced that a Shorten Labor Government will establish a $300 million Park and Ride Fund for new and expanded car parks at public transport hubs, such as train stations.
This is a clear sign that Labor backs public transport – it’s good for commuters and it eases congestion on our roads. But too many residents in our cities and major regional areas are frustrated at the lack of available parking at train and bus stations as they travel into the city for work.
The chronic lack of commuter parking at stations like Schofields means people are forced to park far away from their train station, or they are forced to drive to work instead.
This problem is happening because the current Liberal Government’s aren’t investing in infrastructure to keep up with rapid population growth in outer suburbs, and it’s impacting on families’ quality of life.
Labor’s park and ride fund will deliver grant funding to local communities – via state and local governments – to construct new car parks and expanded existing ones in high-growth areas with demonstrated commuter need. The application process will involve both local and state government, ensuring that parking solutions are delivered.
Labor can afford to deliver important infrastructure projects that local communities are asking for because unlike the liberals, Labor is not spending $17 billion on tax breaks for Australia’s biggest banks.
“This announcement demonstrates Labor’s commitment to working families in our area,” Michelle Rowland MP said.
“Labor recognises the needs of our community and I’m proud to have been fighting for improved commuter parking solutions,” Ms Rowland said.
“Labor has committed at all levels of government to prioritise parking for Schofields Station. It was so exciting to hear our federal leader has heard our issues and understand the urgent need for commuter parking,” Dr Annemarie Christie said.
“The $300 million park and ride announcement by Labor on the weekend is a real win for commuters”, Dr Christie said.
