Photo: brimbank.vic.gov.au

Speaking at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 20 June 2017, Brimbank Mayor Cr John Hedditch said Council endorsed the draft Transport Disadvantage Policy for public exhibition.

“As the second largest municipality in Melbourne, this is an especially relevant issue for Brimbank.  We are disadvantaged by many residential areas and industrial precincts not having close access to public transport routes and there is increasing pressure to provide transport services to meet the requirements of the community.

“Council recognises the impact that transport disadvantage can have on people and the related health and social impacts that can arise from the lack of available and accessible transport options, including reduced access to medical services, limited recreational, educational and sporting opportunities or reliance on expensive transport options.

“The development of the draft Brimbank Transport Disadvantage Policy provides Council with a policy position designed to guide the development of a sustainable transport system that is affordable and accessible, and to reduce the nature and extent of transport disadvantage in Brimbank.

“Council has previously called to improve the limited transport choices available to Brimbank residents.  This draft Policy better positions us to advocate for increased funding and resources, from all levels of government, to help minimise transport disadvantage and strengthen social cohesion within Brimbank,” Cr Hedditch said.

The draft Brimbank Transport Disadvantage Policy aims to:

·           Inform the development and delivery of affordable and accessible transport solutions.

·           Contribute to reducing the nature and extent of transport disadvantage in Brimbank and strengthen local cohesion.

·           Provide a platform with which to advocate for increased funding and resources to strengthen social cohesion and community wellbeing.

“Initially a Council working group was established to contribute to the development of the draft Policy. Council now invites the community to give us their feedback on the draft policy,” said Cr Hedditch.

The community is invited to have their say online at brimbank.vic.gov.au

Written feedback must be received no later than 5pm on 21 July 2017.

Hard copy forms may be mailed to Community Care Department, Brimbank City Council, PO Box 70, Sunshine VIC 3020.