How RACT's Vision Can Help Hobart Streets Become People-Friendly
RACT’s vision aligns with sustainable streets, promoting public transport, cycling, and reduced car dependency for a better Hobart future.
At Streets People Love Hobart, we’re all about reimagining streets as spaces that prioritise people, safety, and sustainability. That’s why it’s exciting to see the Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania (RACT)—an organisation traditionally associated with motorists—shifting gears towards a vision that aligns with our goals.
RACT’s Representing Tasmanian Motorists Policy offers a blueprint for reducing car dependency in Hobart, enhancing mobility, and creating a more sustainable and liveable city. Here’s a closer look at how their initiatives align with our mission.
Tackling Congestion: A Shared Priority
Like us, RACT recognises the toll car dependency takes on Hobart. With "approximately 85% of people in Greater Hobart [driving] to work" and only "6% [travelling] to work by public transport", the reliance on private vehicles leads to congestion that impacts our economy, environment, and quality of life.
RACT advocates for "settlement strategies in key areas that consider the integration of infrastructure with private, public and active transport", aiming to reduce congestion and parking demand while improving access to jobs, services, and recreation. These strategies could transform Hobart into a city where people come first, not cars.
Investing in Sustainable Transport Options
RACT’s commitment to sustainable alternatives mirrors the Streets People Love Hobart ethos. The policy "urges local government to re-invest parking revenue into public transport, cycling and/or walking improvements". This would fund projects that create safe and accessible pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, turning streets into vibrant, people-friendly spaces.
RACT also calls for programs that encourage behaviour change. By making "more efficient use of existing infrastructure", we can shift focus to public transport and active travel options that foster a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
A Fair and Transparent Road-User System
One of RACT’s key proposals is transitioning from the outdated fuel excise system to a "road-user charging model". This would account for factors like travel distance, vehicle weight, and environmental impact, with revenues directed toward "road safety and transport infrastructure". Such a system could help reduce unnecessary car trips and create more funding for active transport projects.
A Shared Vision for Hobart Streets
RACT’s vision complements what we at Streets People Love Hobart are working towards: streets that are accessible, sustainable, and welcoming for everyone. Their call to integrate active and public transport into urban planning, invest in walking and cycling infrastructure, and promote alternatives to private car use could be the catalyst Hobart needs.
By embracing RACT’s recommendations and building community support for these initiatives, we can take meaningful steps towards a future where Hobart streets are designed for people, not just vehicles.
Learn More and Join Us
Want to know more about the movement to create a better future for Hobart streets? Check out RACT’s plans:
And don’t forget to join us at Streets People Love Hobart! Together, we can reimagine Hobart as a city that prioritises safety, sustainability, and vibrant community spaces.
