Ms Kosky said the Western Metropolitan Transport Forum was a chance for the Brumby Government to hear views on our transport network ahead of the delivery of a comprehensive transport plan for to be released Victoria later this year.

“The Government is taking action to build a better transport system for Victoria by hearing from as many people as possible before making any key decisions,” Ms Kosky said.

“We have heard from a range of local people today including representatives from Local Government, community services and transport operators.

“I’m very pleased with the enthusiasm of those involved and thank participants for providing their feedback on our transport network.”

Ms Kosky said the event also allowed participants to learn more about Victoria’s transport challenges and hear an outline on the Brumby Government’s current planning processes.

“The transport plan we will deliver at the end of the year will help drive our economy, make our communities more liveable and our State more sustainable,” she said.

“The ideas and issues raised from today’s discussions will provide valuable input to the plan which will also incorporate feedback from the 2200 submissions received on Sir Rod Eddington’s East West Link Needs Assessment report Investing in Transport.”

Ms Kosky said although today’s event was for government and industry stakeholders, there was still an opportunity for the general community to be involved in the process.

“I’m pleased that many Members of Parliament will conduct their own round table discussions in late August to hear views from the broader community,” Ms Kosky said.

“We want to ensure that everyone can be involved in helping to shape Victoria’s future transport network.”

The Western Metropolitan Forum is one of four regional and four metropolitan round table discussions being held ahead of a summit to be chaired by the Premier in September.