Australian bicycle sales continue to outstrip motor vehicle sales and prove resilient in the face of a slowing economy. Figures released today show bicycle sales have bucked the downward trend in consumer spending, outselling cars for the 9th consecutive year.

“The economic downturn and the affordability of cycling is one of the key reasons for the continued surge in bicycle sales” said Elliot Fishman, policy advisor with the Cycling Promotion Fund. “The sluggish economy, coupled with concern over climate change, health, congestion and petrol prices have strengthened interest in cycling as an option” said Fishman. 

• Click here to read the Bicycle Sales 2008 Cycling Fact Sheet (PDF, 1.94M)

“Australians are not just buying bikes, they are using them increasingly frequently. Census figures show a 28% increase in riding to work across Australian capital cities, with Melbourne’s growth soaring to 48%. This growth is largely centred upon the inner-city, with superior levels of bicycle infrastructure” argued Fishman. Bicycle counts across Australia are also showing a steady increase in cycling – for both recreation and transport.

As the government looks to stimulate the economy with infrastructure projects and bring down Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, the option for Australians to substitute car trips with other modes makes a lot of sense. Bicycle infrastructure provides a logical and affordable solution and will pay increasing dividends over time by lowering transport costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

The Cycling Promotion Fund is calling on the Commonwealth to fund large scale bicycle infrastructure projects of national significance. “Helping to create bicycle friendly cities is one of the most effective measures the federal Government can take to help Australians fight climate change, the obesity epidemic, congestion and make our cities more liveable” concludes Fishman.

Quick Facts

1. Over 50% of car trips in Australian cities are under 5km and 30% are less than 3 km.
2. Transport is responsible for 34% of household greenhouse gas emissions
3. 1.59 million Australians adults cycled in 2007(9.7% of the population)
4. The Australian Bicycle Industry is worth approximately $1 billion and employs an estimated 6,000 people.
   

Media inquiries:     Elliot Fishman     0438 547 450