Future Brisbane: RACQ chief says region is at a crossroads
South East Queensland is at a crossroads as population grows and our roads become more congested. But there are practical solutions, writes RACQ chief David Carter.
South East Queensland is at a crossroads. With each passing year, our population grows, and our roads become more congested.
As we look to the future, especially with the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, it’s never been clearer that business as usual won’t cut it. We need a fresh approach to transport infrastructure if we’re to keep pace with growth and ensure a better quality of life for everyone who calls this region home.
This story is part of The Courier-Mail’s annual Future Brisbane series that advocates for a better city and region. Read all the stories in the series here
Future Brisbane is a Courier-Mail advocacy series support by TechnologyOne, Brisbane Airport, The University of Queensland, Brisbane City Council, NBN, ANZ, Walker Corporation, RACQ, Carnival, Port of Brisbane, Suntory and Transurban.
This is a great place to live, work, and play. It’s not surprising so many people want to move here. Population growth is not the problem, how we plan for it is.
Cities across the globe, far larger than Brisbane, move millions of people daily with well-planned, integrated transport networks.
When it comes to transport, our research shows that Queenslanders want more frequent public transport services and upgrades to our motorways – particularly investment in our outer ring roads to alleviate congestion and better connect surrounding regions.
Delivering these priorities is crucial to success in hosting a world-class event and leaving a legacy for generations.
RACQ recognises that the capacity for significant additional investment in infrastructure is going to be challenging. There’s a lot to build between now and 2032 and the construction and infrastructure sector is already bulging at the seams with demand.
Even if money was freely available, it is not clear the people are there to build it.
Ambitious plans matter, but they must be deliverable. That’s why RACQ backs the Brisbane Metro system – it’s practical, cost effective, and ready to make a real difference. Expanding Metro busways across the southeast means faster, smoother, and more comfortable commutes for thousands, less pressure on our roads, and shorter travel times.
The new Adelaide Street tunnel is proof we’re heading in the right direction. This major link boosts Brisbane’s busway network and shows what smart investment can achieve. But we can’t stop now – investment in connecting our transport networks must continue to better leverage what we’ve got, and make sure the new connects smoothly with existing transport options.
Other innovative options like the ‘Metro Glider’ – a shorter, more manoeuvrable version of the Brisbane Metro – can fill the suburban gap and act as a feeder service, funnelling commuters onto the major, more direct routes.
These smaller buses don’t need new high-cost infrastructure; they can run on upgraded road corridors, making them cheaper and quicker to launch. This approach can deliver benefits now, while futureproofing for bigger projects.
Buses must continue to do the heavy lifting in SEQ’s transport task.
With a booming population that’s not showing any signs of slowing and venues and other infrastructure to deliver for 2032, the still relatively new Queensland Government has an opportunity to plan beyond its early term agenda and leave a lasting positive legacy. One that puts safe, productive, and efficient mobility at the centre of decision making.
The challenge is clear – make practical improvements now to address congestion, while planning long term for a connected, sustainable future. With smart planning and fresh ideas, South East Queensland can, and will, set the standard for growing cities everywhere.
David Carter is RACQ managing director and Group CEO
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