Streets Ahead: how our election campaign put walking and cycling on the federal agenda
In the lead-up to the 2025 federal election, Better Streets set out to put walking and cycling on the national agenda.
We launched a bold campaign calling for the Australian Government to increase its investment in active transport from just $0.90 per person to $15 per person annually. With the support of people like you, the response exceeded all expectations.
Here’s what we achieved together:
240 election candidates signed our pledge to invest in walking and cycling
Over 100 organisations signed our Open Letter — including professional bodies, health and climate organisations, cycling and walking groups, and local businesses
Around 150 individuals shared their personal stories and signatures
At least 6 MPs and 11 Senators elected have signed the pledge — with final results still coming in that will push these numbers even higher.
This is more than a policy push. It’s a movement — one that shows just how much Australians care about liveable, safe and sustainable streets for everyone.
Our campaign called on the Australian Government to invest $400 million annually in a Nationwide Active Transport Infrastructure Program, matched 50:50 by state and territory governments. This would unlock $40 billion in benefits over a decade by:
Delivering walking and cycling networks in regional and growth areas
Building Cycling Superhighways in our largest cities
Scaling up successful e-bike subsidy programs
Funding safe paths and crossings for children to walk or bike to school
Expanding federal delivery oversight through a dedicated team in the Department of Infrastructure
These are not wishful ideas. They’re grounded in global evidence and backed by economists, health professionals, traffic engineers and everyday Australians.
Our Open Letter was signed by organisations as diverse as the Planning Institute of Australia, Royal Australian College of Surgeons, Asia Pacific Society for Physical Activity, Parents for Climate, Committee for Sydney, WalkSydney, Bicycle Network, Pedal Power ACT and many more. Together, we represent a unified voice calling for practical investment in infrastructure that benefits people and the planet.
And we’re not alone. The Australian Automobile Association, representing 9.3 million drivers, also called for stronger investment in active transport, acknowledging it is a key to net zero, road safety and easing congestion.
We’ve now written to the Minister to congratulate the re-elected Government and restate our recommendations - letter here.
You can read more in our Open Letter or watch our short video from the voices of Better Streets, created by Afterglow.
This is just the beginning. We’ll continue to work with elected representatives, government agencies, industry and communities to deliver the change Australians are asking for.
Thank you for your support. Because of you, Better Streets are on the national agenda.
