Planners envisage that by the middle of this century most Sydneysiders will be able to reach their place of work within 30 minutes using public transport or "active" options such as walking or riding.
The NSW government has released its Future Transport Strategy 2056 report, which suggests investment will increasingly be focused on "three cities" built around Western Sydney Airport, Greater Parramatta and the existing CBD.
"Customers will be able to travel to one of these cities or to their nearest centre within 30 minutes of where they live by public or active transport," the report states.
"This will give people better access to access jobs, eduction and essential services."
The report suggests getting people out of their cars and using sustainable transport will reduce congestion and emissions and improve air quality and wellbeing.
"Well planned centres and cities will enable a shift from private cars to public transport and active transport modes such as walking and cycling," the strategy says.
"In Sydney, the key to this will be the delivery of three 30 minute cities, supported by reliable 'turn up and go' mass transit services."
Active transport for short trips will be encouraged by providing safe and accessible footpaths with seating and shade.
There'll also be better pedestrian crossings, lower traffic speeds, separated cycling paths and secure bicycle storage.
The report notes that by 2056 NSW will have more than 12 million residents. Sydney will be a global city similar in size to London or New York.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian released the transport strategy on Sunday alongside the State Infrastructure Strategy and the Greater Sydney Region Plan.
"Now for the first time we have a co-ordinated vision for our state for the next 10, 20, 30 and 40 years," she told reporters in Sydney.
"It's a plan that makes sure communities can expect to have jobs in their local area, shorter travel times and a better environment which ensures lots of open and green spaces."
Transport Minister Andrew Constance said: "We want to improve public transport and roads so, that by 2056, 70 per cent of people live within 30 minutes of where they work or study."
Australian Associated Press
