



Media Release: Tuesday, 2 December

CYCLING PROMOTION FUND WELCOMES MINSTER BRIGGS’ STATEMENT

ON SAFE CYCLE INITIATIVE

The Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF) has today welcomed the address on road safety to Parliament by Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Jamie Briggs.

In the address Minister Briggs highlighted the need to address road safety for cyclists and other vulnerable road users citing that while the road toll has decreased to the lowest rate on record, cyclist deaths have risen by 7.4 per cent year on year for the last five years.

Referring to early positive results from the Queensland trial of the adoption of a safe overtaking distance passing rule for motorists, Minister Briggs indicated that Transport Ministers from all states and territories have agreed to consider its adoption across Australia.

The Minister commended the Amy Gillett Foundation for its vigorous campaign in favour of the rule.

In acknowledging Jamie Briggs’ address the CPF also calls on the Minister to make specific safety recommendations for infrastructure that will make cycling a safe convenient transport option for all.

‘These deaths and serious injuries impact the lives of thousands of Australian’s, along with the financial impact on our health system and national economy,’ said the CPF’s Stephen Hodge.

‘With poor safety having such an impact on Australians who would like to cycle for transport, urgent measures are needed to make it a safe and convenient option,’

‘All state and territory governments are signatories to the National Cycling Strategy which explicitly commits to doubling the number of cyclists but we know from national surveys that many more Australians would cycle if the conditions were safer’ he said.

'Specific investments in safe roads and legislation that address safety for cyclists are the only way to change the game and provide a safe transport environment for the most vulnerable on our roads.'

‘Australia lags far behind other OECD nations for participation in cycling and public transport use and changes are vital to provide safer streets and more liveable communities.’

‘We look forward to working with the Minister to identify the opportunities to turn around this nation’s poor road safety record for vulnerable road users.’





Media contacts: Stephen Hodge, Mob. 0411 149 910 shodge@cyclingpromotion.com.au





The Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF) is an initiative of the bicycle industry in Australia and is committed to promoting and encouraging cycling and advocating for policies and investments to make cycling accessible, safe and convenient. More information: www.cyclingpromotion.com.au