NRMA welcomes future mobility focus of ACT budget

05 June 2018
The NRMA has welcomed the ACT Government’s continued focus on funding the future of mobility and upgrading roads as part of its 2018-2019 Budget.

Australia’s largest Membership body welcomed the investment in roads and infrastructure, planning for public transport and tourism boosting initiatives.

The NRMA campaigned for funding for William Slim Drive duplications and planning works for the Barton Highway Flyover in their pre-Budget submission.

NRMA local Director Kate Lundy said funding for the duplication of William Slim Drive from Ginninderra Drive to the Barton Highway would deliver better access for residents and improve safety.

“The NRMA has long advocated for improvements to the Barton Highway and William Slim Drive, so today’s announcement is a fantastic result for our Members, who will benefit from a higher quality road network, with less congestion and better cycling links,” Ms Lundy said.

“The funding for better footpaths and cycling links for the Belconnen, Woden and Tuggeranong town centres will go a long way to securing Canberra’s status as a cycling city, improving safety for bicycle riders, motorists and pedestrians alike.”

The ACT Government’s commitment to match the Federal Government’s funding of up to $100 million to upgrade the Monaro Highway was also welcomed.

Ms Lundy also welcomed the $10 million for the next stage of planning for light rail and the ACT Government’s nation-leading investment in electric vehicle charging infrastructure to further encourage the uptake of non-fossil fuel vehicles.

“While the transport needs of Canberrans are evolving, roads will continue to play an important role for decades to come as part of the future transport network supporting electric and autonomous vehicles.

“The NRMA supports policies that encourage people to consider electric vehicles and the ACT Government has led the way nationally on this front.”

As one of the key tourism stakeholders in the Territory, the NRMA also welcomed the additional $12 million for boosting events in Canberra which will facilitate more tourism to the capital city and surrounding regions.

The NRMA will continue to advocate for funding for the Barton Highway Flyover and full completion of Gundaroo duplication.