Equitable access to public transport is a priority for the Southern Grampians Shire Council in the lead up to the State election.
Public transport connectivity is a key driver of regional population and economic growth, providing vital connections between education, employment, health, retail, and recreational opportunities.
Acting Mayor Southern Grampians Shire Council Cr David Robertson said the transport needs of Shire residents simply are not being met and a commitment to improved services to the region is long overdue.
“There are significant gaps in the Public Transport services to our region compared to other regional centres and our residents are being disadvantaged,” Cr Robertson said.
“Towns of comparable population to Hamilton, which are a similar distance from Melbourne including Benalla, Swan Hill, Colac and Maryborough are serviced 6, 7 and 10 times per day respectively during the week, compared to Hamilton’s two services.
“We know from talking to residents that access to Ballarat is critical for people to effectively access employment, social connectedness, and essential medical appointments. We know access to Warrnambool is critical for hundreds of SouthWest TAFE students who rely on being there for workshop/technical training. Currently there is no service that allows residents to complete a day of work or study with return to the region in the same day,” Cr Robertson continued.
“Residents of the Southern Grampians Shire deserve frequent and safe public transport options to enable them to access medical appointment, education and leisure activities when they need to”.
“We need a commitment from the State Government to increased services and improved connections into major regional centres, along with a review of stops, stations and associated infrastructure to ensure an efficient and accessible network for Southern Grampians Shire residents,” Cr Robertson said.
Council is asking community members to share their stories and lend your voice to the campaign to lobby for improved public transport services for Southern Grampians.
“We want to hear from you. Tell us the challenges you have faced because of the lack of adequate public transport in Southern Grampians Shire. Locals know what locals need so head to the Have your Say page on the Council website and share your story under the Public Transport Advocacy section and help us to advocate to the Government for the public transport services we so desperately need,” Cr Robertson concluded.