Inter-regional public transport

Resolution passed 7 March 2012, Minutes No 6, Item 2

That the Committee inquire into how inter-regional public transport can better serve the needs of regional New South Wales. Particular issues for consideration include:

(a) how CountryLink services can be improved;

(b) how network linkages between CountryLink train and coach services can be improved;

(c) the potential for CountryLink services to carry light freight;

(d) how CountryLink can be better utilised to increase tourism in New South Wales;

(e) how the amount of inter-regional travel undertaken by public transport can be increased;

(f) the extent to which regional public transport networks are integrated and how they can be better integrated;

(g) the role local councils can play in improving inter-regional public transportation networks; and

(h) the type of buses and trains that will be required for the provision of regional passenger services in the future.

For the purposes of this inquiry, the Committee uses the term inter-regional travel to refer to travel between regional areas or between a regional area and a metropolitan area. The Committee does not intend to consider the privatisation of existing government owned public transport, including CountryLink, as part of its inquiry.