Another study reveals huge economic, health and environmental benefits of cycling

In a groundbreaking revelation, the 2023 WeRide Australian Cycling and eScooter Economy Report, the largest study of its kind in Australia, exposes the profound impact of cycling on the nation’s triple bottom line—unveiling significant economic, health, and environmental benefits.

According to the report’s findings, the cycling and e-scooter sector in 2022 demonstrated its transformative potential, generating more than 60,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs and contributing an impressive $18.6 billion to the economic and social fabric. Highlighting the extensive positive ripple effect, cycling contributed $954 million in health and social benefits, including $313 million in savings to the Australian health system. Equally noteworthy, cycling played a pivotal role in averting 514,096 tonnes of CO2 equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions by replacing 3.9 billion kilometers of motor vehicle travel.

Sydney, Australia

The EY-conducted report, supported by program partners such as RACV and the Amy Gillett Foundation, underscores the substantial cost of living benefits associated with cycling in Australia. A key revelation from the extensive research indicates that a considerable percentage of adults expressed a willingness to cycle more frequently if better infrastructure and programs were in place to enhance safety and accessibility.

The official launch of these pivotal findings is scheduled to coincide with the Cycling Luminaries Gala Awards Dinner, hosted by Parliamentary cycling champions Zaneta Mascarenhas MP, Hon. Andrew Wallace MP, and Dr. Helen Haines MP, along with Shadow Treasurer Hon. Angus Taylor MP.

Report Findings

Revealing critical statistics for Australia in 2022, the report showcases the transformative impact of cycling and e-scooters on the nation:

Cycling:

• 6.5 million adults engaged in cycling
• Over 58,000 jobs (FTE) created by cycling
• $16.9 billion total contribution from cycling
• 2.2 million kg of air pollutants avoided
• $1.9 billion direct output from cycle tourism nationally

e-scooters:

• 3.6 million adults used e-scooters
• $728 million total contribution from e-scooters

“The sector’s contribution of over $18 billion in economic, health, and social benefits to Australia in 2022 is substantial,” said Peter Bourke, Executive Officer of WeRide, underscoring the report’s significant triple bottom line benefits. “Cycling also played a crucial role in avoiding the release of 514,096 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions and 2.2 million kilograms of air pollutants into the atmosphere.”

Melbourne, Australia

Bourke also highlighted the importance of cycling to the regions, emphasizing the positive impact of cycle tourism valued at $1.9 billion nationally.

RACV General Manager Mobility, Julia Hunter, echoed the report’s emphasis on investing in cycling infrastructure, particularly in Melbourne and regional centers like Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo. She urged the government to support the RACV super-highway cycling network, which aims to physically separate and protect cyclists from other road users.

Final Thoughts

The report also drew attention to the surge in popularity of e-bikes, with RACV encouraging both the Victorian and Commonwealth governments to promote the accelerated adoption of e-bikes as a healthy, sustainable, and affordable transport alternative.

Chief Executive Officer of the Amy Gillett Foundation (AGF) 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,” Kneipp said. “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.”