Investment in active travel a step forward for community health
AMA Queensland welcomes the state government’s $19.1 million investment in new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure across the state.
This announcement demonstrates a commitment to a healthier Queensland and to reducing the impacts of climate change, but sustained, long-term investment is needed to ensure lasting change.
“Recognising that we live in a system not conducive to a healthy lifestyle, AMA Queensland has advocated for an increase in and upgrade of transport systems that facilitate active travel,” AMA Queensland President Dr Nick Yim said.
“In our Budget Submission 2025-26 we called on the government to do more to reduce the impacts of climate change on our community and environment and ensure health care services are sustainable.
“This includes collaborating with local governments to provide connected travel infrastructure and encouraging the uptake of eco-friendly transport options as alternatives to private vehicle use.
“We will repeat those calls in our submission to the current parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility devices.”
This time last year, AMA Queensland’s Climate and Sustainability Working Group developed its Active Travel Position Statement, promoting active travel across transport systems and the health sector.
“A major focus of this work is encouraging people to use public transport, cycle or walk instead of driving to improve their own health while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Dr Yim said.
“However, for this to succeed, we need to see our governments and councils implement systems that enable active transport options and actively encourage their uptake.”
Climate change is recognised as a global health emergency and one of the greatest emerging threats to human health.
“We must reduce carbon emissions—not just from the health sector, but across all areas that impact population wellbeing, including transport and infrastructure,” Dr Yim said.
“We are pleased to see the government take this step and hope it is part of a broader solution to make active options like cycling and e-mobility devices safer and more accessible for all.
“We look forward to seeing these projects begin from July 2025 and urge continued investment to ensure long-term impact.”
Background
- The funding will be delivered via grants provided through the 2025–26 rounds of the Walking Local Government Grants and Cycle Network Local Government Grants programs.
