Yet another bike rider was killed in a crash with a car on the weekend, making it three tragic and unnecessary deaths in as many weeks.
This had some people, both bike riders and non-riders, taking to social media calling for greater physical separation between bikes and cars.
“While bikes are a legitimate form of transport that are legally allowed on all roads, most bike riders would also prefer not to mix with traffic.” said WestCycle CEO Wayne Bradshaw.
This is just one reason why WestCycle is talking to government about a sustained and consistent increase in the funding for walking and cycling infrastructure, to reach 10% of the road budget within four years.
“We’re not seeking new or additional money from government. We’re suggesting a shift in funding priorities so that bike riders, and other micromobility users, can get around more safely.”
“At the current rate of spending it will take over 80 years for WA’s planned Bike Network to be completed, however the demand is increasing with new technology making it much easier for more people to get around in ways other than the private car.”
“Increasing the funding to accelerate the delivery of the bike network will get many bikes, scooters and other rideables off many of our roads, reducing the risk and tensions between car and bike users.
“Where full separation is not possible, lower speeds on local streets can make it safer and provide drivers with clear options if they want to avoid bike riders.”
WestCycle is not alone in this. Over 1,000,000 West Australians ride a bike every year. There is a growing call from experts* and industry** – not to mention the public – to spend more of transport or road budgets on active travel to reverse car dependency, reduce household transport costs and most importantly, to improve safety.
“Experts agree that greater investment in walking and cycling will benefit everyone, not just those who choose to walk or ride,” added Bradshaw. “We agree it might just save lives too.”
For more information visit westcycle.org.au/2025-wa-election-priorities/
* https://theconversation.com/australia-spends-714-per…
** https://rac.com.au/…/advocating…/reports/state-budget
Bike it to Ballidu Gravel wins Community Sport Event of the Year!
In just its second year the Boekemans Machinery | Case IH Bike It To Ballidu Gravel festival took out the SportWest Community Sport Event of the Year at the WA Sport Awards at Optus Stadium last night.
