September is finals time.  All over NSW people are playing in or watching sporting finals of various codes.

Thousands of people will be converging on the biggest events, such as the Rugby League Grand Final at Sydney Olympic Park.

Keep an eye on the Transport Info website for information on public transport to major events.

At this time of the year, the pressures on our transport network are clearly evident.

Finals excitement and anticipation mixes with the frustration of being stuck in traffic gridlock and the lack of transport options – especially in Sydney’s booming outer suburbs.

Of course, transport problems aren’t confined to September.  Getting around Sydney can be a hassle all year round.

For every problem on our transport network there is a solution.  And if we all work together, we can find those solutions and make them happen.

The key will be to modernise and expand public transport – new rail lines to growth areas, more services and better coordination.

The Rail, Tram & Bus Union has highlighted three vital public transport infrastructure projects that we believe are essential to meeting the growing demand for public transport services across Sydney.  [http://rtbu-nsw.asn.au/news/4551.html]

The three key projects are:

• The North West Rail Link from Epping to Rouse Hill;
• Completing the link Epping to Parramatta, and
• The Glenfield to Leppington/Bringelly in Sydney’s South West.

These projects will provide much-needed mass transit links to growth areas, and support the future development of the NSW economy.

To get it right, NSW has to overcome to overcome decades of under-investment, lack of planning, and political apathy.

It’s a big task, but we can take inspiration from all the teams that are playing in finals action this September.

We need resolve, determination, and above all else, team work.

The Better State campaign gives us an opportunity to work together to put pressure on governments to deliver a better transport system for New South Wales.

Public transport workers are on-side.  Commuters are on-side.  Together, we can be unbeatable.

Thanks for getting involved with the Better Service for a Better State campaign.  Make sure you spread the word, and let’s get Sydney moving.

Alex Claassens
President,
NSW Rail Tram & Bus Union