VicRoads opens safety grants

THE state government is encouraging community groups and councils from Victoria to apply for support through this year’s Community Road Safety Grants Program, which is offering up to $1.5 million in funding.

South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said applications were now open, with the program supporting a range of road safety education programs and initiatives that target cyclists, pedestrians, drivers, passengers and motorcyclists.

Funding to support electronic speed signs, road safety banners and mobile billboards (which can be used to communicate messages to road users at chosen locations) will also be made available.

In 2018, grants were handed out to 57 recipients – including councils, schools and not-for-profit organisations – to deliver 190 projects promoting road safety.

Recipients included the Surf Coast Shire council and Diversitat, as well education programs such as Bike Ed.

Surf Coast Shire general manager of governance and infrastructure Anne Howard said the grant was used for road safety messaging and banners as well as road safety education programs.

“The education programs included child restraint checking, bike education, ‘Safe Routes to School’ and ‘Looking After Your Mates’ initiatives,” she said.

Mr Cheeseman said road safety campaigns were imperative to ensuring people use the region’s roads with care.

“Everyone has a part to play when it comes to road safety – which is why we’re giving communities the resources they need to take the lead on road safety in their area.”

“We’re encouraging councils, schools and community groups to apply for this grant program because we know just how effective a grassroot safety campaign can be.”

According to VicRoads, the funding is provided through two grant program streams –
1. Standard Program
2. Towards Zero Challenge.

Applications for the grants are now open and will close on March 11. For more information on the Community Road Safety Grants Program, head to vicroads.vic.gov.au.