MEEGAN Fitzharris says Canberrans have access to another transport option with the launch of a two-year trial of car sharing in the ACT today.

“The trial will involve two car sharing companies, GoGet and Popcar, and will give people access to a small fleet of vehicles across the city,” Meegan said.

“I’m excited to announce today that GoGet and Popcar, companies already established in other parts of Australia, will now be operating in Canberra.

“Car sharing will give Canberrans all the benefits of a car without the hassle and expense of owning one.

“By becoming a member you will be able to access a network of 22 cars parked in specially marked spaces around the ACT, including in Civic (ACT Magistrates Court car park and London Circuit/Constitution Avenue car park), Dickson (Challis Street), Russell and near the Treasury building in the Parliamentary Triangle.

“Car sharing is another way the ACT Government is creating more innovative transport options for Canberra that we can integrate with buses, light rail, taxis, ride sharing and active travel.”

National Capital Authority Chief Executive, Malcolm Snow, endorsed the initiative and has contributed a number of car spaces on National Land for the short-term rental.

“The program has a number of environmental benefits for the ACT, as well as economic benefits for those who use it. The car sharing program will use newer, more fuel-efficient cars, including hybrid vehicles. By encouraging sharing the same vehicle between a number of people, the program should encourage less car usage for individuals and fewer cars on the road. In turn this should mean less pollution and congestion on our roads,” Malcolm said.

“The NCA is committed to increasing travel mode options for workers and visitors in the National Triangle and that is why we are pleased to support this exciting ACT Government initiative.:

Car sharing works by having a fleet of cars available to be booked at any time, day or night, with people paying a fee determined by how far they drive and how long they hire the car.

“People can simply book for the hours they need, or for a full day. Members of the program will be able to find cars near them by using the mobile app or the online booking systems available on goget.com.au or popcar.com.au.

“During the two-year trial membership to the service will be offered at an initially discounted rate, so I really encourage people to become a member and try it out,” said Minister Fitzharris.

The commitment to car sharing is part of the ACT Labor-Greens Parliamentary Agreement.

For more information on the trial visit www.transport.act.gov.au