Petition for safety enhancements to Eureka Street

A petition with more than 1,400 signatures is calling for improved road safety along Eureka Street, and has been presented to City of Ballarat councillors.

“Eureka Street is one of Ballarat’s busiest roads, but it’s no longer fit for purpose,” it read.

“During busy periods there is a continuous flow of traffic, including around blind corners. Children from five different schools navigate this busy road every day, without a single pedestrian crossing.

“Ideally, we would like to reduce the speed limit on Eureka St and make it possible for pedestrians to cross the road safely, especially school children.”

Eureka Street is a council-managed road where there have been many car accidents, including a fatality. The city’s chief executive officer is expected to report back to a future meeting about the petition.

Submissions supporting the petition came from a variety of members within the community.

Shannon Ross, the principal of Woodmans Hill Secondary College, said the school strongly supported a range of measures to improve road safety, such as speed limit reductions and enhanced traffic calming measures.

“Importantly, these improvements would not only support student safety but would also enhance accessibility and connectivity within the wider Eureka precinct,” she said.

“Safer pedestrian access would support tourism, encourage greater use of public transport and active transport and improve the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.”

The Little Cupcake owner Madeleine Witham, whose business is along the road, said it was not designed for 2026’s population and traffic.

“I have personally witnessed six car accidents at the corner of Eureka and Otway Street South and my car was hit by another car attempting to cross Eureka Street at the corner of King Street,” she told the council.