Perth Voice Interactive

SOUTH STREET would feature a light rail track connecting Fremantle and Murdoch Stations if the Greens get their way following the upcoming state election. 

According to the Greens, the light rail track “could be completed for $600 million”, the funding from which would be redirected partially from the state government’s $9 billion major road project budget. 

Greens MLC Brad Pettitt says he would like to see Perth “get on board” the rest of the country’s move towards light rail systems, considering the city’s issue with urban sprawl. 

“All of the mainland states in Australia have light rail and we have seen how positive the impact it has had on their cities. 

“With most Metronet projects wrapping up in 2025, it is time to urgently switch our focus from outer-suburb train stations that encourage more urban sprawl to inner-suburban light rail that can transform Perth into a better-connected, more liveable, and sustainable city.”

The plan was announced alongside the Greens’ proposal for state-wide free public transport, which comes after the Queensland government announced it would be extending its 50 cent fares trial for another four years.

According to the Qld Department of Transport, usage of public transport has increased by an average of almost 20 per cent, though it’s only 5 per cent up from pre-Covid levels. 

Similarly, the WA government’s recent Summer of Free Public Transport scheme saw a 42 per cent increase in public transport usage, and the Greens say they hope to capitalise on this popularity by making all fares free. 

According to the Greens’ estimates, the proposal would save Perth commuters up to $45 a week. 

“Nationally, there is a shift to reduce the cost of public transport for all which we acknowledge and support,” Dr Pettitt said. 

“Queensland’s recent shift to 50c fares has proven to be a huge success reducing traffic and emissions, massively increasing ridership on public transport, and saving Queenslanders millions.

“Investing in free and frequent public transport is a transformative way to make Perth much less car-dependent and much more sustainable as our population grows into the future.”

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER