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MAV Walking & Bike Riding

Published November 2022

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) and VicHealth have been working together since July 2020 to support Victorian councils to deliver projects that encourage walking and bike riding. This infographic highlights the opportunities and challenges for councils identified in a recent survey.

More people are walking and riding

  • Seventy-three percent of councils identified more walking.
  • Sixty-six percent of councils identified more bike riding.
  • Sixty-seven percent of councils identified an increase in walking and bike riding in parks, reserves and/or dedicated paths.

Council intentions in the next 12 months

  • Ninety-seven percent of councils plan to improve bike riding infrastructure.
  • Ninety-three percent of councils plan to improve walking infrastructure.
  • Thirty-six percent of councils plan to deliver more projects or trails than 12 months ago.

What has helped?

  • Online webinars conducted by the MAV have helped council staff to advocate for and deliver projects.
  • Funding and development of local strategies are important.
  • Stronger support from the Department of Transport is welcomed and remains crucial.

Changed travel patterns and sentiments with increased walking and riding activity have continued after COVID-19 restrictions ended.

Barriers

Lack of funding

Seventy-two percent of councils identify funding as a critical barrier.

Cost pressures

Sixty-nine percent of councils identify inflation in the construction sector as an issue.

Next steps for MAV

  1. Continue to collaborate across government and strengthen key partnerships.
  2. Advocate for increased funding and simpler grants.
  3. Continue campaigning for local priorities.

Read the full survey reports online at the MAV Walking & Bike Riding Hub.

Back to Council Survey Results