Strategic Issues

On this page you will find an overview of some of the strategic issues that need to be considered when preparing an integrated transport strategy.

	Definitions Sustainable transport, integrated transport, active transport - find out what these terms and others mean in the information sheet, available here.
	Integrated transport - the basics The word 'integrated' is used deliberately. As explained by the Darebin City Council Integrated Transport Plan, the word 'integrated' is used because issues such as congestion and environmental damage can only be addressed by considering the relationship between different forms of travel, and between transport and other council policies and actions, particularly those to do with land use planning and economic development. Read more here.
	Local government role Local governments are not only concerned with the functionality of a particular asset, but with the broader goals of community well-being, equitable access to services, environmental protection and sustainable and liveable communities. To find out more about the role of local government and transport, click here.
	Land use Settlement patterns and the distribution of activities across a region have profound implications for the transport system required to service the resultant travel demand. To find out how local government can direct development in a way that creates sustainable settlement patterns, click here.
	Community engagement Local government is the sector of the government that is closest to and in constant contact with the community. Effective community engagement is vital to achieve buy-in to change. Read more here.
	Evaluation for sustainability Evaluating policies, projects and plans that have an impact on transport choices against sustainability criteria is an important part of an Integrated Transport Strategy, especially as there are many benefits that will be seen in environmental and social as well as economic indicators. Read more here.
	Travel demand management Reducing car dependence and achieving the modal shift towards integrated transport that underpins the 20% by 2020 target will require some major changes in travel behaviour. Read more here.
	Access for all abilities There are many sectors of the community who have limited access to transport. These sectors often forfeit activity because travel is so difficult for them. Read more here.