Community Transport of the Future

Providing equitable and accessible transport options for those that need it most is a huge issue already and is only growing more acute as our aging population increases and our health policies focus more on living in place targets for disabled and older people.

This research project was developed by ITS Australia through the iMOVE CRC with our research partners the Institute of Governance and Public Policy at UTS and project partners Transport for NSW, Transport & Main Roads QLD, Department of Transport WA and Department of Transport Victoria. It was fully funded through iMOVE supported by the Commonwealth Government.

Investigating all aspects of Community Transport operations across Australia, their critical role, and the challenges they and their customers face, this research has clarified some hesitations around technology, highlighting the advantages and the importance of reciprocal partnerships for technology adoptions.

With almost 1 in 4 Australians projected to be over 65 by 2057 Community Transport users are a growing and complex stakeholder group with challenging needs and expectations and in 2020 the Commissioner for Senior Victorians published a report which found 92% of seniors rated personal mobility as critical to health, social wellbeing, and independence.

Community Transport customers have had some resistance to technology adoption previously, but this has seen to be reduced with increased exposure – COVID19 impacts have accelerated this acceptance, particularly with regard to cashless payment.

Technology can provide the pathway to improve access to and enhance services available to those that need them, both now and into the future, and technology is increasingly permeating community transport.