2019 NSW Election – Key Election Issues - Access to transp ort changes lives
Community Industry Group today highlights the impact that not being able to access transport i s having on many people's lives.
" Vulnerable and disadvantaged people are missing out on key opportunities and activities that could significantly improve their lives," said Nicky Sloan, CEO of Community Industry Group. " For many people on low incomes, the prospect of owning a motor vehicle is an impossi ble dream. And for those who do, they are often the oldest and most expensive to keep running. Reliable and responsive public transport options can open opportunity and increase disposable income for people who often have to choose between petrol and food. Or between having a car and having access to services. " P ublic transport in regional areas falls well short of what is available in metropolitan areas, and Community Industry Group is calling on candidates to commit to measures which will increase affordable and accessible transport options across south east NSW.
Public transport is vital to ensure people on low incomes can access medical services such as doctors, specialists, optometrists and dentists. It also ensure s people from smaller towns and village s can have access to a wider range of fresh foods, can shop in more affordable supermarkets.
and can enjoy entertainment or sporting opportunities.
" Access to transport can open opportunities for education and employment, which can have significant impacts on the economic futures of people who are unemployed," Ms Sloan said. " It can also enable social opportunities which are important in reducing social isolation and risk of mental health issues." "Particularly vulnerable are people experiencing domestic an d family violence," said Ms Sloan.
"Often in regional and remote areas, they are more trapped, more vulnerable and less likely to escape their vio lent situations."
