Transport can be a significant factor in social disadvantage. There is considerable evidence that the importance of transport in both causing and addressing disadvantage is growing. Increasing urban sprawl, the high and growing costs of transport and growing inequalities in the spatial distribution of travel and activities are acting to increase needs. The links between social disadvantage and transport are significant in both urban and rural Australia compared to other countries. Distance is a major barrier to economic and social activity and Australian cities have some of the world's longest urban travel distances. Young people, those on lower incomes, seniors, people with impairments and many minority groups are known to experience difficulties in accessing economic and social activities.