Submission to the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap

ATSE's submission to the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Action Plan outlines the importance of the transport sector the Australia’s zero emissions target, with transport expected to be the largest source of emissions by 2030.

The submission calls for the Government to work to make active and public transport easier and more convenient for commuters, and the encourage these forms of transport wherever possible.

Where this is not possible, commuters should be supported to use electric vehicles through investments in infrastructure, support for low SES households and a regulated second-hand market. In freight transport, increasing the use of shipping and rail rather than air or road transport should be encouraged and minimum sustainability standards should be introduced for fuels.

Future emissions reductions will need to be supported by appropriate investments in research and development, to ensure that the sector can continue to find innovative ways of reducing emissions. 

ATSE recommends the following actions to help decarbonise the transport sector:

Recommendation 1: Invest in making public transport a more practical and attractive option for commuters through increased coverage, reduced commuter costs and AI-enabled improved scheduling.

Recommendation 2: Use federal infrastructure funding to support the development of active transport infrastructure, including protected cycle lanes and improved safety.

Recommendation 3: Work with the State and Territory Governments to promote active transport through cycling infrastructure, storage requirements, and town planning to establish more walkable cities.

Recommendation 4: Invest in charging infrastructure for electric vehicles well in advance of customer demand.

Recommendation 5: Support lower socio-economic status households to access electric vehicles through developing a strong second-hand electric vehicle market and supporting access to household energy upgrades.

Recommendation 6: Incentivise public transport providers to switch to electric trains and buses.

Recommendation 7: Implement minimum sustainable fuel requirements for Australian shipping and aviation, in line with international best practice.

Recommendation 8: Invest in expanding rail networks to reduce freight emissions.

Recommendation 9: Boost investment in Australian research and development of sustainable transport, fuel and battery technologies.