In the largest ever study of its kind undertaken in Australia, funded by governments, industry, motoring and bicycle groups, the 2023 WeRide Australian Cycling and eScooter Economy Report has reinforced cycling’s importance in delivering triple bottom line outcomes, with significant economic, health and environmental outcomes.
The report revealed that in 2022 the sector contributed $954 million in health and social benefits, including $313 million in savings to the Australia health system. Cycling also avoided 514,096 tonnes of CO2 in greenhouse gas emissions, through replacing 3.9 billion kilometres of motor vehicle travel.
The report by EY, with support from Program Partners including RACV and the Amy Gillett Foundation, highlighted that cycling also generates considerable cost of living benefits for Australians. The study found that a large proportion of adults would cycle more often if there was better infrastructure and programs to make cycling easier and safer.
By the numbers
The report revealed that in 2022 in Australia, 6.5 million adults cycled, and over 58,000 jobs were created by cycling. In terms of economics and the environment, there was a $16.9 billion total contribution from cycling.
3.6 million adults used an e-scooter, with a $728 million total contribution from this form of transport.
WeRide’s Executive Officer Peter Bourke said, ‘The triple bottom line benefits of the sector are significant, generating thousands of jobs as well as providing health and environmental benefits, making investment in cycling and e-scooters a national imperative.
‘The report also highlights the importance of cycling to the regions, for the first time providing a detailed picture of the positive impact of cycle tourism, valued at $1.9bn nationally,’ said Mr Bourke.
RACV General Manager Mobility Julia Hunter said the report reinforces the importance of investment in cycling infrastructure and the many benefits of micro-mobility options. ‘Also of note is the growth in popularity of e-bikes, with the number of electric-powered bikes sold nationally increasing by over 250 per cent from an estimated 54,000 bikes in 2020 to 193,000 bikes in 2022,’ she said.
‘RACV encourages both the Victorian and Commonwealth governments to promote the acceleration of e-bike adoption as a healthy, sustainable and affordable transport alternative.’
Report welcomed
Chief Executive Officer of the Amy Gillett Foundation Dan Kneipp welcomed the report that highlights the significant contribution cycling makes to the Australian economy.
‘This information is extremely valuable in articulating the economic importance of supporting more people riding bikes,’ said Mr Kneipp.
‘As the AGF continues to work with community leaders around the country to increase investment in safe cycling, the data from this report will assist us build the case for more action to make people on bikes safe and support more people riding for more trips.’
