Media Release 

Brisbane is in real danger of grinding to a halt if bus infrastructure is not drastically improved. That’s the stark warning from Queensland’s peak body representing the bus industry. 

Executive Director of Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) David Tape has foreshadowed enormous congestion if transport infrastructure in the south-east is not fixed now, and has pointed the finger at the Federal Government. 

“We talk about congestion, but the only way to fix the problem is for governments to stop playing politics and work together to fund infrastructure projects, and so far Canberra is ignoring the reality,” he said.

“The Prime Minister calls himself the ‘infrastructure prime minister’ but the truth is that the former government invested far more into transport infrastructure. 

“While politicians talk, Queensland is facing a future of congested roads and chaos.” 

QBIC, which recently released its ‘Moving Queensland’ blueprint for the future, has called for an expansion of the existing busways network in conjunction with dedicated bus lanes, increasing Park n Ride capacity and better integration between different modes of transport. 

“We can’t just keep building more roads; we need to take stock of what is already in place and use it smarter.” 

Mr Tape said buses carry more than 67 per cent of the public transport in the south-east and every bus takes approximately 50 cars off the road.

“Bus infrastructure needs to be considered in the planning process for new developments and residential building projects, and we need better bus feeder networks into the train system.” 

He pointed to the stalled Eastern Busway project which has the green light from the State Government, support from Brisbane City Council, but needs federal funding to proceed. 

“At the moment, buses are stuck in Brisbane’s traffic jams like every other vehicle, which means there is less incentive for people to leave their cars at home. 

“It’s time for governments to wake up to the problem before the region grinds to a halt.” 

Media Contacts: Lyall Mercer – 0413 749 830 // Barbara Gorogh – 0435 909 608