Cycling Promotion Fund: Vote 4 Cycling

Bicycles in this Election
In the second half of 2007, the people of Australia will be asked to elect a new Commonwealth Government. Historically, there has been little federal support for cycling, relative to state and local contributions.With the converging issues of climate change, spiralling fuel costs, an obesity epidemic and rising congestion, the 2007 federal election is an important opportunity to get bicycles on the agenda.

Register a Potential Project
We have developed a tool to enable local government and cycling organizations to register potential projects which could be funded under such a program. This will assist the cycling sector to provide practical examples of potential projects to both the Government and Opposition in the lead up the election and beyond.

Benefits of Cycling
Cycling offers a range of important benefits. As a zero emission form of transport and recreation, it can help reduce the soaring rate of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Cycling is also a proven method of reducing our rates of obesity and diabetes. With urban congestion becoming an increasing feature of our daily lives, cycling presents a refreshing alternative that takes only 1/12 the road space of a car. Finally, spiralling fuel costs are straining household budgets. Cycling is a great way to get fit, make short trips and avoid the pain at the pump.

• More information on the benefits of cycling

Contact your Local Member and Candidates
We can all make a difference in an election campaign by making our voice heard. There has never been a better time to let politicians know that more federal support is needed for cycling.

How you can help
In the lead up to the 2007 federal election we are running a public interest campaign, putting pressure on all Members of Parliament and candidates across the political spectrum to support bicycle friendly initiatives at the national level.

The cycling community continues to make professional and hard-hitting representations to all levels of government to improve cycling resources. But only with the support of many voices can we really be heard. And that’s where you can help:

• Contact your local Member of Parliament and candidates
• Write to the editors