Bicycle Network have demanded that government invest more in bike infrastructure and stem the crippling cost of health care caused by diseases linked to physical inactivity.
Bicycle Network’s Chief Executive Officer, Craig Richards said that today’s National Cycling Participation Survey 2015 figures showed the National Cycling Strategy’s vision of doubling bike rider numbers by 2016 is set for extraordinary failure.
“More than four million Australian’s will die due to lack of exercise. And the agreed plan to get people active through riding a bike has been completely ignored,” Mr. Richards said. “14 million Australians want to ride a bike but are concerned. They are just waiting for governments to build the bike infrastructure they need to get active.”
Mr. Richards pointed out that the national strategy aimed to double the number of people riding a bike between 2011 and 2016. Today’s survey results, however, shows the number of riders in Australia has remained relatively unchanged since the targets were set. Richards added that across the country, 17% of Australians (4 million people) ride a bike each week. The 2016 target set by governments was 36%, while rider numbers have stayed the same, the number of Australians dying from lack of activity, continue to rise. Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease remain a major concern for our nation.
Mr. Richards commented that this week’s COAG meeting revealed the $45 billion shortfall in health spending governments face by 2030. In addition, we know physical inactivity costs Australia more than $13 billion each year.
“Governments across the country should hang their heads in shame at this disgraceful failure,” Mr. Richards said. “The lack of leadership and years of neglecting the needs of bike riders has meant much-needed bike infrastructure hasn’t been built, leaving rider numbers to remain static. Proper infrastructure encourages people to ride, get active and lead happy and healthier lives.”