RACV launches election monitor

RACV has launched a Victorian election monitor to assist Victorians to better understand the major parties’ positions on proposed transport infrastructure projects and initiatives that will improve safety, mobility and affordability in Victoria.

RACV general manager public policy Brian Negus says that with a state election looming on 29 November, RACV believes that Victorians deserve to have a clear understanding of each political party’s transport and mobility policies, including project funding and timing, and have called on the parties to plainly state their positions.

“RACV, which represents more than 2.1 million members across the state, is calling upon the next state government to commit to addressing major issues with our transport networks to improve liveability for all Victorians,” says Negus.

“There is no one-fix to Melbourne’s congestion and RACV’s position is clear, the development of sustainable, integrated road and public transport networks is essential to address our current congestion problems, which will be compounded by expansive population growth in Melbourne and regional Victoria.”

The RACV has major safety concerns with the state’s road maintenance at only “half-way to where is needs to be”. Sections of major highways across Victoria have fallen below two stars in safety ratings with no policies in place to correct the concerns.

Negus says further road and public transport solutions were needed from all parties to keep Victoria safe and competitive.

In addition to the road and public transport findings from RACV’s Melbourne and Regional Growing Pains surveys, and the Redspot survey, the motoring group is also calling for other reforms that will improve safety as well as easing the burden on families.

These reforms include a six monthly option for vehicle registration payments, providing free online access to photographs of infringements from road safety cameras, financial assistance for vehicle modifications for drivers with a disability, and the banning of trucks from the right lane on all freeways with three or more lanes.

“The RACV Election Monitor – racvelectionmonitor.com.au – is an opportunity for political parties to state their policy position to the Victorian public,” says Negus.