6/1/06
The Western Australian Government’s State-wide investment in cycling facilities has been recognised in a national report, showing WA has overtaken Victoria to become the main cycling State in Australia.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan announced that the ‘Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey Annual Report 2004’, found WA had achieved the largest growth in cycling in Australia.
“The growing success of cycling in WA demonstrates that the State Government’s $60million investment in cycling infrastructure, enhanced by its integration with public transport and major destinations, is paying dividends,” Ms MacTiernan said.
Over the last four years, the Government has built 184km of bike paths in the metropolitan area and 183km of bike paths in regional areas. More than 350km of on-road bike facilities have also been created across the State.
“This, combined with the success of the Cycle Instead campaign, has proved very effective in boosting cycling levels in WA,” the Minister said.
“The report also highlights that the gap between female and male cyclists is smaller in WA than any other State, suggesting that efforts to target women also have been successful.
“The shared path network has been particularly effective, with off-road facilities appearing to appeal to women particularly.”
The Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERSS), which is a joint initiative of the Australian Sports Commission and State and Territory departments of sport and recreation, was first conducted in 2001.
The Cycling Promotion Fund has also announced the sixth consecutive year of bicycles outselling cars in Australia.
Bike sales in Australia last year totalled 1,120,337 a 13 per cent lead on new car sales, which totalled 988,269.
Nationally, cycling was the fourth most popular activity with a participation rate of 10.5 per cent, behind walking (39 per cent), aerobics/fitness (17.1 per cent) and swimming (16.5 per cent).
WA results were similar, with walking recording a 41.4 per cent participation rate, followed by aerobics/fitness (18.1 per cent), swimming (17.8 per cent) and cycling (13.8 per cent).
The Gallop Government is protecting and enhancing WA’s unique lifestyle and environment by continuing to support the growing numbers of cyclists across the State.
Minister's office: 9213 6400
