State Election Questionnaire
Only 2 of 30 state election candidates responded to our election questionnaire. Here's what they had to say.
On the 24th of June, we emailed 30 state election candidates, from Liberals, Labor, Greens and independents, in the divisions of Clark and Franklin.
We sent reminders, and even discussed the questionnaire in person with four of the candidates. Two of different parties and two independents.
We recieved two responses. Thank you kindly to David O'Byrne (Independent for Franklin) and Helen Burnett (Greens for Clark).
In addition to our survey, you may want to see the Rail Tram and Bus Union and Bicycle Network.
David O'Byrne
Independent for Franklin
The Tasmanian Government’s Better Active Transport Grants Programs provided local councils with funding to assist in delivering active transport solutions. These grants programs have ended and have not been further funded in the recently proposed state budget.
Do you support extending these grant programs with $2 million/year funding?
Yes
Should funding for active transport grants to local councils be increased?
I’ll consider it on the basis of properly costed budget bids relating to various projects.
Do you support a positive approach to street and transport development that caters for all users and all transport modes?
Yes
Do you support initiatives to consolidate infrastructure for mixed mode transport between municipalities?
Yes
Do you support an upgrade to pathway infrastructure on the Tasman bridge?
Yes
Do you support the building of a connected separated bike lane network on Hobart's streets?
As a concept, yes, but there needs to be improved communication and consultation on design elements for it to be embraced by the community.
Do you agree that promoting and enabling active transport options is one of the most effective ways to promote and increase community health?
Yes
Do you support the Transforming Collins Street project which removed 22 on-street parking spaces to add bike lanes, on-street dining and make Collins Street more people-centric?
I’ll await the outcome of the current trial
Helen Burnett
Greens spokesperson for transport and candidate for Clark
The Tasmanian Government’s Better Active Transport Grants Programs provided local councils with funding to assist in delivering active transport solutions. These grants programs have ended and have not been further funded in the recently proposed state budget.
Do you support extending these grant programs with $2 million/year funding?
Yes, the Tasmanian Greens support extending the Tasmanian Government’s Better Active Transport Grants Programs. Active transport connects local communities, creates greater equity with better access for all users, and provides alternatives to car use
Should funding for active transport grants to local councils be increased?
Yes.
Do you support a positive approach to street and transport development that caters for all users and all transport modes?
Yes. Good urban design includes transport development that is safe and benefits all people, whether they are walking, cycling, pushing a pram, using a wheelchair, catching the bus, or driving. Everyone uses roads and streets, and therefore roads and streets need to work for everyone.
Do you support initiatives to consolidate infrastructure for mixed mode transport between municipalities?
Yes. It has to work for a region and not stop at municipal boundaries. The Greens believe that integrating public transport including buses and ferries, and having secure bike parking that is conveniently located provides transport users real options
Do you support an upgrade to pathway infrastructure on the Tasman bridge?
Yes. The Tasman Bridge is in dire need of upgrades, and the Tasmanian Greens were extremely disappointed in the Rockliff Government’s decision to abandon the 3.5 metre pathways that would have enabled better and safer active transport between Hobart’s eastern and western shores. Also the connections on both the western and eastern sides of the Bridge should be improved with any proposed upgrade.
Do you support the building of a connected separated bike lane network on Hobart's streets?
Yes. The Tasmanian Greens support the development of a connected, separated bike lane network in Hobart. Connected, separated bike lanes create safer streets for everyone, including motorists. Upgrades to the Sandy Bay Rd bikeway would be a start!
Do you agree that promoting and enabling active transport options is one of the most effective ways to promote and increase community health?
Yes. The Greens understand the need for incidental exercise. Even walking to bus stops to catch buses improves fitness.
Do you support the Transforming Collins Street project which removed 22 on-street parking spaces to add bike lanes, on-street dining and make Collins Street more people-centric?
Yes. The Greens were very vocal in condemning the withdrawal of state funding promised to the City of Hobart for the Collins St upgrades. Upgrades are good for all users and consolidating parking spaces is a better use of public land (road space), especially when more people on bikes improve fitness, air quality improves, and congestion decreases.
