State support for road safety

REDUCING road trauma is the focus of new State Government funding with education programs in the Loddon Mallee region as part of a $1.5 million Community Road Safety Grants scheme.

Local groups and schools will use the money to address the issue of cycling safety, with Bike Bendigo receiving just over $15,000 for a workshop tailored to primary school and junior secondary students.

Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said funding is an important step towards reducing traumatic injuries on the region’s roads.

“We are all responsible for road safety, one wrong decision on our roads can have life changing consequences and this program empowers local groups to share vital road safety messages,” she said.

The grants program, operated by the TAC, will see several safety measures carried out across the state, including roadside banners, speed signage and mobile billboards.

Motorcycle safety sessions will be held in Gippsland, Melbourne and the Grampians and safety initiatives for school routes will be employed in the state’s south-west.

Over 100 high schools in Victoria will also be offered young driver courses to educate those getting behind the wheel for the first time on road safety.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the TAC funding is designed “to help improve the safety of our community whether driving behind the wheel of a car, cycling through the streets or walking in the busy city centre.”

Municipalities can also apply for funding up to $30,000 for educational programs and $100,000 for major infrastructure projects.