Connecting communities is one of the key priority areas in the government response to growth management.

As part of this priority, the government will deliver connected communities that have ready access to jobs, services and attractions through initiatives that improve public and active transport.

To deliver on this priority, two key initiatives and seven supporting actions have been identified.

Key initiatives

Set targets for transport network

Set ambitious 20-year targets to guide the transformation of South East Queensland's transport network, including a desire to:

• double the share of active transport trips (cycling and walking) from 10% to 20%
• double the share of public transport trips from 7% to 14%
• reduce the share of trips by private vehicles from 83% to 66%.

Federal government assistance for river rail crossing

Seek federal government assistance to deliver a new river rail crossing in inner Brisbane that will benefit rail commuters throughout the region.

Cross River Rail will unlock capacity in the inner city to enable the rail network to be extended into new areas like Ripley in the west, the Sunshine Coast and Kippa-Ring in the north and the southern Gold Coast and allow greater service frequencies throughout the network.

Supporting actions

Integrated regional transport plan

Finalise and release the draft ConnectingSEQ, the new Integrated Regional Transport Plan for South East Queensland. ConnectingSEQ will provide the blueprint for future transport needs, help tackle congestion and progress the vision of '15 minute neighbourhoods' in South East Queensland.

Green pods trial

Conduct a trial of Green Pods for cyclists providing secure bike storage, lockers and end of trip facilities at Darra, Bald Hills and Varsity Lakes rail stations.

Queensland cycle strategy

Release the new Queensland Cycle Strategy, which will aim to encourage more daily cycling trips by connecting the existing cycle network including working with local governments to deliver the principal cycling network, ensuring all major transport projects include cycling facilities, delivering end-of-trip facilities, and promoting cycling as an alternative to car use.

Local government funding for transport

Encourage local government to provide funding for expanded public transport services and infrastructure, which could double the number of public transport services in some areas.

Shared car parking

Pilot shared car parking in a transit oriented community precinct to deliver more efficient use of land and greater community amenity.

Wireless internet

Explore opportunities to roll out wireless internet connection to major public spaces and major public transport stations.

National broadband network in regions

Work with the federal government to maximise the geographic reach of the National Broadband Network to strengthen regional economies and local employment opportunities, including aiming to provide optical fibre to all education, health and public safety facilities, all state and local government libraries, all local government council administration buildings, and a central facility in all hub towns.