It is an issue raised at every election around the country, with the exception of many rural areas badly in need of better PT infrastructure.

I have spoken with people around the region who struggle to make it to hospital appointments due to the lack of PT in their area, and are frustrated at relying on goodwill to get where they need to go.

In an area as vast as ours, transport is what keeps the region's engine running, with many people traveling large distances every day.

Some advocates support the idea of car ownership assistance programs to help low-income earners access opportunities which would also increase a family's expenses - especially in a rural community where two cars are often needed.

Studies show that building PT infrastructure creates jobs and supports local economies more so than building roads. 

Perhaps small buses could be used to create a network in the region, with pilot programs run to test the best web of routes.

With summer on its way many young people and those unable to drive would I'm sure travel between towns and tourist destinations throughout the holidays and weekends.

A trial of electric buses has been given the green light in Queensland as they look to take advantage of recent advancements in battery technology and keep costs to the ratepayer down.

In a positive speech in state parliament, Member for Bega and Infrastructure and Transport Minister Andrew Constance linked transport with job creation, describing NSW as “the number one state when it comes to infrastructure roll out”.

“In 100 years people are going to look back at this period and see that this was a time when the state and the city were transformed,” he said.

However, in his home electorate, many people rely on a PT system that runs only five days a week. With a local as transport minister it could be our best chance to create what is needed, as we may never have this opportunity again.

- Alasdair McDonald