Transport Logistics

Doing business in Australia brings one face to face with the complex transport logistics that prevail in the continent. The unique characteristics of Oz Transport ensure that the problem is not an easy one. There are of course, two basic options when working out the details of transport logistics – public and private.

Australia’s public transport system doesn’t compare very well to other developed countries around the world (barring parts of the United States). There’s no doubt that most of the transport is dominated by the car. However, some parts of the continent are rather well connected in general via rail and bus. One of the major cities – Sydney – however, has been rated as having one of the worst public transport systems in the world. Of course, as you might expect,  air transport is very well developed in Australia.

Use of Trams in Public Transport
To encourage more use of public transport, trams have seen a resurgence in many places. Probably the city which has the biggest love affair with the tram is Melbourne, in the state of Victoria.

Melbourne’s tram network, operated by Yarra Trams, is one of the biggest tram networks in the world. Yarra Trams operates under a franchise agreement, with oversight by the Victorian Department of Transport.

Around 180 million passenger tram trips each year are taken in Melbourne, which has increased by 50% since 1998. Imagine how many car journeys this has prevented, meaning less traffic, and less pollution in Melbourne.

And, unlike some cities where public transport has been cut, the tram service in Melbourne really does cater for the needs of the public, operating from early in the morning to very late at night. The times are from 5am – midnight, Monday to Thursday, with extended hours to around 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.

If you are intending to drive in Melbourne be aware of the Melbourne hook turn. The hook turn is a manoeuvre at certain intersections where drivers want to make a right turn. It involves pulling into the innermost lane – the left lane – when the lights are on green, then waiting till the lights change to red, and the lights from the side directions turn green. You then proceed. The hook turn is intended to help prevent the slowing down of trams using that street.

Light Rail
Meanwhile in Oz’s third biggest city, Brisbane, arguments continue over the expansion – or not – of light rail. It was back in 1969 when trams were discontinued in Brisbane, with many of the public unhappy about the decision.

The Greens are very keen on the use of light rail networks, which are used in a number of countries, with less reliance on buses. But, as usual, it seems the costs involved in the setting up of more routes for light rail is a key barrier.

The argument by those who are pro light rail is that by converting public transport over from buses to light rail it will save on the cost of fuel, and benefit the environment by reducing carbon emissions. Business in general welcome the idea of more light rail as better transport options bring in more customers.

Those opposed include property owners who fear a loss in the the value of their homes.

To Buy or Hire a Car?
When it comes to private transportation, the choice is whether to hire or buy your own transport. If you’re planning on an extended stay, it’s more economical to buy your own vehicle as compared to those who’re in and out quickly, for whom a rental would be more appropriate. A week’s car hire in August, for example, is likely to set you back from between $250 and $325 depending on type of car, and whether you collect/return to an airport or not. Quotes you get will include fully comprehensive insurance, but there is an excess in the event of an accident. This excess can be reduced by paying an additional daily fee, which can all add up to a hefty charge for your car hire.

If you are going to be in Australia for some time it could prove more cost-effective to purchase a car. But, the usual rules apply. Make sure the car is the seller’s to sell, check the car over as thoroughly as possible, make sure all the necessary documentation and safety certificates etc are available. Remember, states have their own laws and requirements when it comes to car purchases, and various additional charges may apply.

The transport logistics of private transport revolve almost entirely around the car. Australia has one of the most car intensive societies in the world, and you can’t really get along without one.