Released 08/06/2017
Joint media release: Meegan Fitzharris MLA and Shane Rattenbury MLA
The first stage of reforms to the ACT’s road transport legislation to support the operation of light rail has been introduced into the Legislative Assembly.
Minister for Road Safety Shane Rattenbury said the Road Transport Reform (Light Rail) Legislation Amendment Bill 2017 laid the foundation for more sustainable transport in the Territory.
“The Bill integrates the light rail system with the ACT’s road transport legislation and road rules, ensuring light rail can operate safely on our roads,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Light rail in Canberra will provide more transport options for Canberrans, as part of an integrated transport system. The Government is delivering a modern and sustainable transport system for the ACT, which will take us closer to achieving zero net greenhouse emissions in the ACT.”
Light rail vehicles and their drivers will be subject to the vast majority of rules and regulations covering vehicles on ACT roads.
“Canberra Metro is subject to the Rail Safety National Law, which imposes strict safety requirements on the rail operator and rail drivers,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Light rail vehicles will also be covered by the ACT’s compulsory third-party insurance scheme. Compensation will be available for people injured by an at fault light rail vehicle driver.”
The ACT’s road safety policy recognises the role of sustainable transport policies in improving road safety.
“Light rail will meet Canberra’s future transport needs along one of our most important corridors,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“The Government’s commitment to 100 per cent renewable electricity by 2020 means that the light rail network will not only provide a quick and convenient public transport service, but it will also deliver significant environmental benefits.
“The introduction of light rail will contribute to reduced reliance on private car use, easing traffic congestion and associated vehicle carbon emissions.”
Minister for Transport and City Services, Meegan Fitzharris also welcomed the reforms.
“Safety is the most important consideration the Government has had to make throughout the planning and build of Stage 1 light rail,” Minister Fitzharris said.
“Following on from our Budget commitment to provide three new Worksafe Officers along the stage one corridor, I am pleased to see further steps taken today, through these reforms, to ensure safety is a key priority during construction and operation of Canberra’s light rail network.”
Further legislation will be introduced in 2018 to support the operation of light rail as a public passenger service.
- Statement ends -
Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases