Submitted by Benjamin Korleski on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Australia sponsored by the School of Nursing…
Australia’s public has a strong voice. Australia’s state and federal government have also shown their care and support for their people. This relationship is apparent through everyday transportation and traveling through Sydney and in the state of New South Wales. Public transportation has been funded primarily by the government and this is clear. The train is easy to use, bicycle lanes such as the one shown below have been developed all across the city, and pedestrian walkways are safe to walk on. The government has developed a program called “Opal Pass” which expedites the public transportation process. You can fill your Opal Pass and tap it to enter and exit any major transportation methods such as train, tram, ferry, or bus. Their transportation system also allows for many major credit cards with “tap” functions to be utilized. They also promote public transportation for people in any socioeconomic status. In the United States, it seems as though public transportation has a different connotation. It is more difficult and more expensive to travel to major cities, what with connecting trains and vehicle transport services. In my experience, it is also seen as more commonly used by those with a lower socioeconomic status. This is far from true in Sydney, Australia.