REFORM OF LAND TRANSPORT: THE AUSTRALIAN EXPERIENCE

Over the past ten years, the Australian Government has undertaken a comprehensive reform of transport in Australia. These reforms have encompassed the shipping industry, waterfront, domestic aviation, the international aviation carrier, rail transport and the road transport industry. For land transport, major reforms have included the establishment of the National Rail Corporation to more efficiently transport interstate freight and the creation of the National Road Transport Commission to promote nationally uniform regulation and road use charging. In addition, the Federal Government has embarked on reforms in road construction, road safety, urban public transport and the provision of transport services for people with disabilities. The process has encompassed environmental considerations in its attempt to provide an improved transport system. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of land transport reform in Australia. While its focus is on the national framework, reference is made to reforms at the State-Territory level which complement the national focus. (a) For the covering record of the conference, please refer to IRRD abstract number 849497.