The National Faster Rail Agency is progressing business cases for various rail corridors, while state and territory transport agencies are leading a transformation of urban transport.
There needs to be an outcome-focused approach to providing access to rail services where decisions use a data-based understanding of movement requirements. The new population movement trends across the country provide a meaningful catalyst for considering these changes.
If the current increase in demand for connections between Smaller Cities and Regional Centres and Fast-growing Cities continues, the business cases for regional connectivity enhancements will substantially improve for some communities.
The Australian Government needs a deeper understanding of existing and future travel patterns, and of the role transport infrastructure investment plays in changing how people and businesses decide where to settle. This could provide a credible Justification for investing sooner than previously forecast. For further detail, refer to the Transport chapter.