Eastern FM (98.1 FM) is a local community radio station based at the Wyreena Community Arts Centre in Croydon.

I was invited to be interviewed on Eastern FM to discuss the Eastern Transport Coalition and the need for public transport improvements in the outer suburbs. The Eastern Transport Coalition represents approximately a million residents and includes the Box Hill, Ringwood and Dandenong Transit Cities.

Improved public transport, including better coordination for bus services and rail improvements such as extensions and duplications, is required to provide an alternative to car dependence and to mitigate rising traffic congestion.

Traffic congestion has been estimated to cost $2.44 billion in Melbourne’s eastern and southeastern suburbs causing a substantial loss of productivity. Furthermore, car dependence is responsible for 3,230 thousand tonnes of greenhouse emissions in Melbourne’s east and southeast.

I also discussed the need for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station, particularly given Ringwood’s status as a transit city. The current station is dark, perceived to be unsafe and fails to comply with accessibility standards.

Public transport improvements are crucial to the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and it is essential that all levels of government commit to the delivery of these much needed projects.

For further information on Eastern FM please visit www.easternfm.com.au.