[Greens-Media] Greens: State Government must be clear on where congestion tax will be spent

[Walker, Nadine]

Greens: State Government must be clear on where congestion tax will be spent
Media statement, Thursday, 4 December 2014

Greens MLC Lynn MacLaren has called on the State Government to reveal what infrastructure projects the proposed congestion tax will fund, stating "if it is to build more roads, we are no further forward."

"Revenue should be invested directly into creating world class public transport and cycling infrastructure," said Ms MacLaren, Greens WA Transport spokesperson.

"If it truly plans to reduce congestion, the Barnett Government must not mimic similar spending in London where in previous years congestion charges were absorbed into administration costs and consultancy fees, as well as roads," said Ms MacLaren. 

"If the tax funds build more roads then it stands as just another revenue grab. Building roads to ease congestion is like loosening the belt to cure obesity."

"The State Government is at a stand-still when it comes to improving public transport infrastructure. Barnett has committed massive funding to new urban freeway projects and a light rail plan is gathering dust on the shelf. People in regional and rural areas have few transport options. 

"The State Government should also extend public transport into outlying suburbs where locals without cars are isolated". 

The Greens WA support prioritising and adequately funding the expansion and improvement of the public transport system and cycling infrastructure in the State.

For comment: Hon Lynn MacLaren MLC
Mobile 0403 721 951

Media liaison: Nadine Walker
Mobile 0449 189 195