NSW Council Election Campaign 2024

Congratulations on standing as a candidate for the NSW Council Elections on 14th September  I commend your commitment to the local community in seeking public office.

As a bike rider, I am very interested to understand what you would like to achieve for active transport in xx Council and how you plan to support walking and cycling.

There are some exciting walking and cycling projects underway / recently completed in the area [e.g. list those significant to you].  Many residents will benefit from this work. It is essential that the xx Council does not lose momentum.

Did you know that 70% of trips under 2km are made by car? Wouldn’t it be fantastic if it was safer and more attractive to make these short journeys on foot or by bike?

Walking, cycling, micromobility and public transport are the key to meeting Net Zero targets. Switching to electric cars will not get us close.

Cycling is growing in popularity. More bikes have been sold than cars in the last two years.  There is huge community support for better infrastructure!

I’m sure you are aware of the many amazing benefits of bike riding:

Cycling is healthy for everyone
Cycling reduces road congestion
Cycling is a sustainable form of transport
Cycling will make an essential contribution towards reaching Net Zero emissions
Cycling can be an enjoyable and exciting form of recreation
Cycling helps get kids outdoors and active.
Cycling leads to more connectedness in our community
Cycling is more convenient for short trips
Cycling can support public transport use
Cycling eases pressure on household budgets.

Add data and examples that inspire you.  The resources below will help.

Personal stories are brilliant.  How does cycling make your life better?

I would appreciate your responses to the following questions (choose 3 or 4) as it will influence my vote.

Perhaps include questions relating to the Bicycle NSW campaign. This will help amplify our messages:

• Will you take the Bicycle NSW pledge to be a #2024CouncillorForActiveTransport?
• Will you put active transport at the forefront of budget decisions and grant applications?
• Do you support Better Streets initiatives such as reduced speed limits, safe routes to school and low-traffic neighbourhoods?
• Will you initiate education programs and e-bike subsidies in your council to accelerate a mode shift from car dependency to active and public transport?
• Will you help establish a walking and cycling advisory group to guide the planning, design and delivery of active transport projects?

Or you could discuss specific projects or priorities:

• Why do you see active travel as important in your electorate?
• If elected, which projects will you advocate for to achieve better outcomes for walking and bik riding?
• Several strategic cycleway corridors cross the LGA. How will you help deliver these?
• What can Council do to build community appetite for walking and cycling projects?

I am a local resident and a voter in the coming council election.
I would be pleased to provide you more information over the phone or in person.

[your name]
[resident of electorate]
[your email address]
[your phone number??]
Bicycle NSW Member xxx [if applicable]