By Matthew Sims
Targeted education programs and localised solutions to road dangers, including those in Hume and Whittlesea, are on the way as part of the Community Road Safety grants program.
Schools, councils and not-for-profit organisations would deliver 232 initiatives as part of the $1.5 million program.
Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll said the funding will help all road user groups, including pedestrians, drivers, motorcyclists and bike riders and reach a range of ages from young students to retirees.
“Whether you are a student or retiree, a pedestrian, cyclist or motorist, these grants assist in bringing lifesaving messages to every corner of our state,” he said.
“Sadly, too many communities understand the impact road trauma can have.
“This program gives schools and groups the opportunity to work together at a grassroots level to improve road safety.”
More than $700,000 has been invested in rural and regional communities to drive down trauma and address issues, including vehicle safety, fatigue, and high-risk driver behaviour such as drink and drug driving.
The Safe Routes to School and Bike Ed initiatives would improve safety for Victorian students and families walking and riding to class, with recipients including Kidsafe Victoria and Surfing Victoria.
This year’s grants program would support the Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, which aims to halve road deaths and reduce serious injuries by 2030 and eliminate road deaths by 2050.
