In the period 1981 to 1996, as Sydney's population has increased there have been changes in where people live, work and their mode of travel to work. While travel to work comprises a decreasing proportion of total travel, the majority of new infrastructure investment is determined by the peak demand period in the morning, of which commuting is the dominant contributor. Using the Census Journey to Work data for 1981, 1991 and 1996, the changes in land use patterns and travel to work are examined. The changes are examined in the current policy context of promoting urban containment and the use of public transport. An investigation of land use changes between 1981 and 1996 shows that in recent years, the policies of urban containment appear to be having some impact in redressing the declining employment and workforce in inner city areas. This change has not been accompanied by a move towards public transport however, with car use for the journey to work increasing at a greater rate. However, it does appear that increases in travel distance to work have been slowed by the recent land use changes. The findings have implications for understanding the link between land use and transport, modal investment priorities, and the planning of new suburbs. (A)
Abstract