The Nationals WA will invest $61 million to improve regional road safety across regional WA if returned to Government at the State election.
Member for Agricultural Region Martin Aldridge said the announcement reaffirmed The Nationals strong commitment to improve regional road safety and reduce fatalities on country roads.
“It’s a stark reality that regional WA has a significantly higher rate of road deaths when compared to the metropolitan area, especially across the Wheatbelt,” Mr Aldridge said.
State Government initiatives such as the Towards Zero campaign and Road Trauma Trust Account (RTTA) have steadily improved fatality rates but Mr Aldridge said it was clear the Wheatbelt required greater focus and a clear strategy.
“A collaborative and concerted effort from Government, industry and all road users is needed to reduce the number of fatalities on our roads,” Mr Aldridge said.
“Our Road Safety Strategy will aim to make Western Australian roads safer starting in the Wheatbelt where the death toll is highest and then expanding successful elements of the program across regional WA.”
The Nationals WA $61 million Road Safety Strategy will encompass:
- A $5 million Wheatbelt Road Safety Campaign;
- $4 million towards a Road Safety Community Action Fund;
- $40 million towards a Safer Roads Fund
- $12 million to create a Wheatbelt Road Safety Force; and
- Review into the Road Trauma Trust Account.
Mr Aldridge welcomed the introduction of the Wheatbelt Road Safety Force policy, with Moora chosen as one of the communities that will receive a new traffic force.
“We all know a visible police presence lowers fatal crashes. I’m looking forward to having a police team established in the Wheatbelt that’s dedicated to keeping locals safe on the road,” Mr Aldridge said.
“The police will not only enforce the law but work with our community to help change attitudes towards road safety.”
Mr Aldridge agreed the announcement confirmed The Nationals understood the issues that matter to country people and continue to be the only Party dedicated to regional WA.
“This Strategy reaffirms our commitment to regional road safety and we will continue to work hard with the community until we reach the ultimate goal of zero road fatalities,” Mr Aldridge.
For more information visit: www.nationalswa.com/regional_road_safety
For media enquiries contact Martin Aldridge on (08) 9324 3155 or martin.aldridge@mp.wa.gov.au
