Victorian road toll “devastating”: Minister

THE number of people who lost their lives on Victorian roads in 2025 increased slightly compared to 2024, edging up from 284 to 288.

Both years represented a drop from the 2023 toll of 295 pedestrians, motorcyclists, drivers, passengers, e-scooter riders and cyclists.

The State Government aims to stem the tide through its Road Safety Action Plan 2, announced last year.

The approximately $1.1 billion plan is projected to deliver life-saving road safety infrastructure and strengthen enforcement over the next four years with the hope of reducing road trauma across Victoria.

This includes a $350 million investment in new initiatives and safety infrastructure such as barriers on high-risk curves and along both rural and urban roads.

The Department of Transport and Planning has also updated its Speed Zoning Policy to include more choices, including 30 and 70-kilometres-per-hour options.

Acting Minister for Roads and Road Safety Harriet Shing said the impact of road trauma is “devastating” and extended her “deepest condolences” to every person affected by it every year.

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many, which is why more than $1.1 billion has been allocated to making Victorian roads safer,” she said.

Meanwhile, Transport Accident Commission (TAC) acting CEO Samantha Cockfield said the focus is on education and awareness to help Victorians make safer choices on the road.

“Simple actions like slowing down, avoiding distractions and never driving under the influence can save lives. Together, we can make sure everyone gets home safely,” she said.