The commuter crisis is a pressing issue that has been exacerbated by the recent fuel crisis, and the Prime Minister's advice to switch to public transport is not only ill-timed but also fails to address the complex realities of modern commuting. Award-winning engineer and author Felicity Furey highlights the disconnect between policy and the lived experiences of commuters, particularly in the post-pandemic era. The pandemic has significantly altered travel habits, with a notable shift towards remote work and shorter, more localized journeys. This change in behavior has not been adequately reflected in the design and operation of public transport systems.
Furey argues that the traditional model of commuting, characterized by predictable peak-hour patterns into the CBD, no longer aligns with the current reality. The average commuter now faces a more hybrid and multi-destination journey, including daycare, school, errands, and caregiving, all while balancing full-time employment. This shift has been further complicated by the rise in remote work, with 21% of Australians working from home in 2021, up from 4.7% in 2016. As a result, the average daily commute has increased to 64 minutes, and the average commute distance has grown to 37 kilometers.
The financial burden of commuting is also a significant concern. Households spend an average of $447 per week on transport, with the majority of this expenditure going towards private vehicle costs, such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance. The Real Commute Report 2025 reveals that the average commuter spends $3557 per year on commuting, a substantial amount that highlights the economic impact of the current system.
Furey emphasizes that the issue is not a rejection of public transport but rather a struggle to keep pace with the evolving nature of travel. The traditional 'standard user' assumption, upon which transport systems were built, no longer reflects the diverse and complex journeys of modern commuters. The infrastructure, designed decades ago in a different social context, fails to accommodate the current needs of the population.
The burden of rising fuel prices disproportionately affects those with limited alternatives, particularly those in regional areas or outer suburban growth areas with poor public transport connections. For many, driving is the only practical option, and the lack of viable public transport solutions forces difficult trade-offs. The Grattan Institute's report on transport infrastructure spending further underscores the challenge, with governments investing heavily in major projects while the reality of commuting remains unchanged.
The solution, according to Furey, lies in a more comprehensive approach to public transport design. Systems need to be tailored to accommodate different types of journeys and life stages, including regional commuters and those with multi-destination trips. This includes designing for various seasons of life, such as pregnancy, childcare, and caregiving, as well as improving safety for night workers and women traveling alone. By embracing this broader perspective, policymakers can create a more sustainable and practical commuting environment that better serves the diverse needs of the population.
