Media Release

Queensland can look forward to a more reliable, frequent and sustainable transport system following the launch of a blueprint by the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) to improve infrastructure, ease traffic congestion and change attitudes toward bus travel. 

The QBIC Action Plan is the first of its kind in Queensland and calls for a strategic partnership between the industry, Government and community. 

QBIC Executive Director David Tape said the plan had already been presented to the Minister for Transport Annastacia Palaszczuk. 

“The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk spoke at the recent QBIC annual conference in Townsville and acknowledged the importance and value of a strategic plan for Queensland’s bus industry,” Mr Tape said.

“Queensland’s population explosion has created challenges in meeting growing demand for services and infrastructure. 

“As the voice of the State’s bus industry QBIC wanted to take affirmative action to address these issues. “We have worked closely with key stakeholders to develop a solutions driven strategy to build a safer, greener and more efficient bus transport system for Queensland. 

“The plan has been formulated to tackle issues such as traffic congestion, climate change, accessibility and social responsibility head on, and we are committed to investing the necessary time and funds to realise its objectives. 

“If we want more people to choose to travel by public transport we need to ensure services are clean, reliable, frequent and easily accessible. 

“That means ensuring bus stops are located a short stroll from residential estates and offices and rail systems are well linked with buses. Keeping the buses clean and running on schedule will also be key. 

“Until this happens many Queenslanders will choose to drive rather than jump onboard our buses and we will continue to struggle with issues such as traffic congestion and high levels of CO2 emissions from private vehicles. 

“QBIC looks forward to working closely with all stakeholders to promote and enhance a sustainable public transport system delivering safe, effective and efficient services." 

QBIC represents bus and coach operators in Queensland, ensuring its members are kept abreast of the latest industry developments and facilitating training services. 

The Action Plan can be downloaded from the QBIC website www.qbic.com.au or by contacting the QBIC Office on 07 3397 1700.

 Media contact: Fiona Evans at Sequel Communications - 07 3251 8122 or 0403 090 911