Queensland Bicycle Council
The Queensland Bicycle Council was established by the Minister for Transport* on 28 September 2010 to provide advice to government on the development and implementation of the Queensland Cycle Strategy. The council encourages a coordinated and integrated government approach to cycling in Queensland and provides stakeholders from government and the cycling community with the opportunity to provide input into decisions made by government.
Objectives and role
The objectives of the council are to:
- contribute to the review of the Queensland Cycle Strategy
- steer and monitor implementation of the Queensland Cycle Strategy
- encourage greater integration of cycling as a transport mode within the transport system
- foster a sustained increase in the level of cycling participation in Queensland
- promote improved safety and security for cyclists.
To achieve these objectives, the council will:
- monitor quarterly reports from lead agencies on the Queensland Cycle Strategy implementation actions and report progress annually
- encourage the development of partnerships between government, industry, cycling organisations and the community on initiatives that impact on cycling
- provide an effective consultative forum for cyclist organisations and government
- advise government on methods to improve road safety and security for cyclists
- advise government on methods to improve infrastructure and facilities for cyclists
- champion responsible road use by cyclists and other road users through legislation, education and training
- review and advise lead agencies on policy and legislation relevant to cycling
- support the integration of cycling into the government’s economic, land use, health, education, environment, climate change and transport strategies
- champion public awareness of the health, lifestyle and other benefits to individuals and society provided by cycling.
Membership
Membership of the Queensland Bicycle Council is by invitation from the Minister for Transport and Multicultural Affairs or delegate. State government, local government, cycling organisations, bicycle industry, retailers and educational institutions are represented on the council to provide a wide coverage of perspectives and expertise in this area.
In addition to the core membership, other organisations and individuals will be invited to discuss particular issues.
The Chairperson shall be the Deputy Director-General (Policy and Planning) or delegate for terms of up to two years, or as otherwise specified. The role of the Chairperson includes:
- chairing meetings of the council
- ensuring that the council acts within its terms of reference
- informing the Minister for Transport and Multicultural Affairs or delegate of the council’s activities and, where appropriate, providing information and advice.
The council serves as an advisory body to the Minister for Transport and Multicultural Affairs or delegate. Members will be required to participate in discussion in an objective and collaborative manner by:
- observing confidentiality and exercising tact and discretion when dealing with sensitive issues
- disclosing to the council any possible conflict of interest or commercial or professional advantage to be gained for themselves or another party from membership of the council. Any disclosure or intent shall not preclude any member from providing his or her personal view on any matter before the council
- acting corporately and supporting strategies and programs formally endorsed by council. Notwithstanding this, council acknowledges, that where members perform a representative role, the need for those members to ensure that their respective organisations are informed and consulted on significant issues before council
- making the necessary commitment to attend meetings regularly and to ensure that they are fully informed of matters which are the subject of consideration by council.
Responsibilities
The council acts as an advisory body and as such is not responsible for establishing government policy. Representatives from government organisations are not able to give, at meetings, a guarantee that decisions endorsed by the council will occur. However, the council has an important role in providing advice to government, and decisions made by the council will be taken to the appropriate levels.
Resourcing
Financial and secretarial support to the council will be provided by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Meeting arrangements
The council will meet quarterly. The meetings will be held in Brisbane and may utilise teleconference facilities if required.
Notice of a meeting shall be forwarded to members no less than 14 days prior to a meeting being held. The council must record its proceedings through minutes.
A quorum consists of the Chairperson plus at least half of the other members. Meetings can proceed without a quorum, but decisions must be ratified by a quorum.
There will be no sitting fees paid to members. Meeting attendance costs will generally be borne by attendees.
Working groups
The council may establish working groups to examine specific issues or manage special projects that arise through the work of the council. Working groups will enable focussed work to be undertaken and issues progressed between meetings of the council.
Accountability and reporting
The council will submit an annual progress report on implementation of the Queensland Cycle Strategy, and work of the council, to the Minister for Transport and Multicultural Affairs or delegate.
Meeting communiques
* Rachel Nolan was Minister for Transport, but legislative changes have subsequently occurred.
