75 with Dr John Stone: Lecturer & Researcher on Transport Systems, Melbourne University

In PlanningxChange Episode 75, Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell interview Dr John Stone. John is a Lecturer in Transport Planning and Urban Planning at the Faculty of Architecture, Building at Planning; Melbourne University. His research seeks to improve public transport performance in Australian cities through a greater understanding of the professional practice and the political and institutional context for public transport planning in similar cities in Canada and in German-speaking Europe. He is currently pursuing opportunities for greater exchange between Australian practitioners and their international counterparts.His research explores the politics, institutions and professional practice that lie behind success or failure in sustainable urban transport. Drawing on practice in many cities around the world, especially Canada and German-speaking Europe, his research has identified many opportunities for more effective and efficient public transport in Australian cities through better service coordination and network design. His current research raises questions about the new technologies and markets for shared and autonomous vehicles. Will these disruptions help us to make the transition to low-carbon urban transport? Since completing his PhD in 2008, his work has been funded through many grants and consultancies including an ARC Discovery Project and a Commonwealth Endeavour Research Fellowship. This follows over 20 years’ experience in transport in Melbourne, including work in local government and the community advocacy. The interview covers his work and raises other issues rarely debated such as are electric vehicles a wise and sensible direction to head? The impacts and influence of covid restrictions on transport choices is another of the many topics discussed. This podcast was produced by Complete Podcasting Services. Episode released 24 February 2021.