Road safety grants open for local councils

COUNCILS across Victoria can now apply for funding to improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists under this year’s Transport Accident Commission Local Government Grant Program.

Applications are open for four grant types, including up to $100,000 for infrastructure projects, up to $30,000 for safety analysis, up to $50,000 to develop a Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan, and up to $30,000 for variable message signs.

Projects should align with the Victorian Road Safety Strategy and adopt Safe System principles that aim to prevent crashes and protect vulnerable road users.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said councils play a key role in local road safety.

“Local governments play an important role in reducing the number of lives lost on Victoria’s roads because they’re aware of the road safety concerns within their local communities,” Ms Horne said.

“Walking and cycling are great ways to stay healthy and get around, and these grants will not only improve the safety of vulnerable road users but continue to foster liveable cities that encourage active transport.”

Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter said the program would help councils protect people in their communities.

“We cannot accept road trauma as inevitable – no one should be killed or seriously injured on our roads and the TAC Local Government Grant Program is about supporting local councils in protecting the people who use the roads in their areas,” Ms Slatter said.

Last year, 49 grants were provided across 38 councils, including funding for the City of Greater Bendigo to develop its Road Safety Action Plan 2023–2027.