In the 2024 Queensland election, Queensland Walks identified four core election priorities to improve the walkability of Queensland.
By improving walkability, we will boost personal and road
safety for Queenslanders, improve health, improve social connections, support businesses, tourism and economy and reduce congestion and associated emissions.
Walking investment provides exceptional return on investment, creates healthier and happier communities, and is cleaner for the environment. Put simply, investment in walking for every body, every place.
With a return of $13 for every $1 spent, Government cannot deny the strong case for investment in walking infrastructure. With increasing demands on traffic management, hospitals and health services, providing more opportunity for all people to walk, roll and stroll comfortably and safely is a key to a more liveable and productive Queensland.
Walking investment is not just about local governments building or maintaining footpaths. The Queensland Government has an opportunity to be smart and invest in businesses, the built form, and the safety for all Queenslanders through a range of government departments who engage and influence walking environments including:-
- Transport and Main Roads
- Queensland Health
- Health and Wellbeing Queensland
- Planning and architecture
- Disabilities, communities, age-friendly, women and girls
- Tourism
- Sport and Recreation
- Education.
Queensland Walks recommend State Government continue implementing, investing and supporting the vital action of current plans such as:
- Walking Network Plans
- ‘Quicker, Lighter, Cheaper’ infrastructure grants
- Advocacy groups such as the Queensland Walking Alliance
- Movement and Place framework
- Road Safety Initiatives.
Queensland Walks supports a government invested in walking.
