Trends shaping transport

In the 5 years since the last accessibility and inclusion strategy, the environment has changed considerably, including by the impact of a global pandemic on communities and transport stakeholders. Other examples of movement in the environment presenting opportunities and challenges include:

International megatrends

• New transport services are increasingly developed by the private sector, making government an enabler not a provider, and requiring more partnering with the private sector.
• Boundaries between buyers and sellers are changing e.g. Peer to peer markets and sharing economies are increasing.
• Automation and data driven capability is allowing better integration of systems.
• Better management of available resources is needed in the face of population changes (e.g. ageing communities), increasing consumer demands and environmental awareness.
• The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on transport, mobility, and accessibility.
• Cybersecurity risks to transport networks.

National changes

• NDIS will require more from mainstream services as funded services become more targeted.
• Cost of living pressures are increasing demand for public/shared transport. People with accessibility needs are more adversely affected by less choice.
• Regional populations have grown post-pandemic and as economic pressures increase.
• Cost pressures on delivering infrastructure and services.

Queenland’s future planning needs, including:

• 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Queensland’s commitment to emissions reduction, including the shift toward zero emission vehicles.
• Industry capacity and capability.
• Extreme weather events impacting on infrastructure and customer access.

The transport sector is grappling with both the opportunities and challenges of rapid changes in technology and the expectations of customers. Queensland also has some significant planning challenges ahead that TMR needs to prepare for.