New partnership boosts public transport, walking, cycling in journey to net zero

The Public Transport Association of Australia and New Zealand (PTAANZ) has been officially accepted into the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC), at a meeting at Parliament House in Canberra.

ASBEC is the peak body for key organisations committed to a sustainable built environment in Australia, which also convenes the Infrastructure Net Zero initiative, a collaboration focused on decarbonising Australia’s infrastructure sector, including transport.

Acceptance of PTAANZ is in recognition of the need to shift more journeys to public transport, walking and cycling to address climate change while keeping communities moving. It also reflects PTAANZ’s growing influence as a peak industry body, with its members including Australia and New Zealand’s transport authorities, and transport service operators.

PTAANZ Chief Executive Lauren Streifer thanked ASBEC members for recognising the role of “mode shift” as a critical pillar for creating truly sustainable cities:

“We need to see more journeys by public transport, walking or cycling to reduce emissions and create people-focused cities and regional centres ” Ms Streifer said.

“Joining ASBEC and the Infrastructure Net Zero Initiative are important steps in deepening PTAANZ’s role as the premier peak body for all modes of public transport and sustainable mobility in Australia and New Zealand. Decarbonising the transport network to net zero and moving people from private cars to public transport, walking and cycling are key priorities for our members, which include all of Australia’s leading transport agencies and operators.”

ASBEC Chief Executive Officer Alison Scotland welcomed PTAANZ, highlighting the important role mode shift and using existing infrastructure more effectively will play in the fight to address climate change:

“Infrastructure enables up to 70% of Australia’s emissions, and transport is an increasingly large share of national emissions that must be abated. It’s exciting to have PTAANZ add their invaluable insights and membership connections as we work through our new strategic plan,” Ms Scotland said.

“Mode shift away from private vehicles is critical if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change and create the kinds of sustainable built environments our communities deserve.”

PTAANZ and ASBEC will deepen their working relationship in 2026, with a particular focus on PTAANZ’s Global Public Transport Leaders Summit, to be held in Sydney next November.