Transport forum highlights community priorities

Hosted by the City of Port Phillip in partnership with the Metropolitan Transport Forum, the event brought together Nina Taylor MP, Katherine Copsey MLC and David Southwick MP for a discussion on transport priorities ahead of the Victorian State Election. Mayor Cr Alex Makin chaired the forum. 

Representatives from neighbouring councils, including Bayside, Glen Eira and Monash, also attended, highlighting the regional significance of transport challenges and opportunities across Melbourne's south-east. 

Community priorities front and centre

A key strength of the forum was the opportunity for residents to put their questions directly to decision-makers and hear different perspectives on the future of transport in the region. Discussion focused on issues raised by the community, including:

• Improving frequencies on the Route 606 bus service.
• Delivering the long-awaited Park Street Tram Link in South Melbourne.
• Future tram and rail connections into Fishermans Bend.
• Safer cycling connections and strategic active transport networks.
• Improved pedestrian safety and accessibility around public transport stops.
• Better access to schools, recreation facilities and activity centres.
• Lower speed limits around schools and shopping strips.
• Affordable transport options to Melbourne Airport.
• Better communication during transport construction works and disruptions. 

The breadth of questions reflected the central role transport plays in everyday life, influencing access to jobs, education, healthcare, recreation and community connections. It also reinforced the value of providing opportunities for residents to raise concerns, share local knowledge and contribute to discussions about future transport investment. 

Planning for growth 

A consistent theme throughout the evening was the need for transport infrastructure to keep pace with population growth, particularly in Fishermans Bend, Australia's largest urban renewal area. 

Community questions highlighted strong interest in the delivery of future tram connections, improved bus services and integrated transport planning to support housing and employment growth. These issues align closely with Council's State Election advocacy priorities, which call for investment in public transport, active transport infrastructure and stronger connections between established and emerging communities. 

More than moving people 

Residents highlighted that transport is about more than moving people from one place to another. Discussions explored how accessible, reliable and affordable transport can reduce cost-of-living pressures, support local businesses and enable people of all ages and abilities to participate in community life. 

Questions relating to walking, cycling, public transport accessibility and connections to schools and recreation facilities underscored the importance of creating transport networks that are safe, sustainable, inclusive and easy to use. 

Working together across the region 

The forum also reinforced the importance of collaboration between councils, transport agencies and the Victorian Government in addressing transport issues that extend beyond municipal boundaries. 

As Melbourne's inner south continues to grow, coordinated advocacy will remain important in securing better public transport connectivity, safer active transport networks and the infrastructure needed to support growing communities. 

Council thanks the panellists, the Metropolitan Transport Forum, neighbouring councils and community members who contributed to the discussion. The strong attendance and engagement demonstrated the community's desire to have a meaningful voice in shaping the future of transport across Port Phillip and ensuring local priorities remain part of the State Election conversation. 

For more information on Council's State Election priorities, visit the 2026 Victorian Election Hub.