Qld zero-emissions transport plan open for feedback

The Queensland Government has produced a draft strategy for working towards a zero-emissions transport network.

Consultation is open on the 30-year transport plan, which includes the likes of automated vehicles and drones.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Queensland Transport Strategy outlines how the state will embrace new and emerging technologies to drive the transport sector and create jobs.

“The Palaszczuk government is delivering the transport infrastructure Queenslanders need now and into the future, from the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail to record investment in the Bruce Highway,” Bailey said.

“But we also need to look at how we can maximise the benefits of existing and emerging technology trends like hydrogen and other zero-emission vehicles to give Queenslanders the best possible transport system as well as drive jobs growth in an emerging industry. That is why we’re delivering on our election commitment to develop the forward-thinking Queensland Transport Strategy.

“Queensland is already home to the world’s longest electric vehicle superhighway as well as thriving EV-based businesses like Tritium who employ more than 250 Queenslanders, and this strategy will look at how we can build on that success, and in line with our Advancing Queensland Priorities, create jobs in a strong economy.

“New commercial and manufacturing opportunities are emerging around these transport technologies, offering exciting opportunities for Queensland’s businesses and entrepreneurs to get involved.

“Every day more than four million Queenslanders use some form of transport to travel from A to B. With projections showing that number will grow by 58% over the next 30 years, the draft transport strategy will provide a long-term direction for how to use technology to meet the needs of all Queenslanders.

“Transport is vital to Queenslanders, jobs, our economy and regional prosperity. And what we know is that new technologies like automated electric vehicles, drones and integrated transport services will make travel faster, safer and more convenient.

“We’re asking Queenslanders to have their say about our vision to deliver strong economic, social and environmental benefits for the future of our state.”

Consultation on the draft strategy is open until 24 May, with the strategy to be finalised later this year.

To view the draft strategy and have your say, visit: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/QueenslandTransportStrategy.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/rottadana

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