Federal Budget Road Funding in Canberra May Worsen Peak-Hour Traffic

The Australian federal budget has allocated $50 million to duplicate Drake Brockman Drive in West Belconnen, with additional funds for Athllon Drive, William Hovell Drive, and planning for the Molonglo East-West Arterial road. While ACT Roads authorities argue these projects will enhance safety, reduce congestion, and accommodate population growth, transport experts warn of induced demand. Elliot Fishman from the Institute for Sensible Transport contends that expanding road capacity often encourages more peak-hour driving, ultimately eroding congestion benefits and increasing car dependence. He cites Seoul’s replacement of roads with green spaces as a successful alternative. In response, Tim Rampton of ACT Roads describes the situation as a balancing act, acknowledging induced demand but emphasizing the necessity of extra network capacity for a growing city. He highlights that duplication projects also improve intersections and provide new links for cyclists and pedestrians, aiming to support both motorists and active travel users. The government plans to stage works to minimize disruption, maintaining that safety improvements are a primary objective alongside capacity expansion.