Why in-vehicle safety measures needs to be a priority for our policy makers

In the wake of the Australian Federal Budget, it’s clear that while the government allocated more than $4 billion towards transport projects, there remains a glaring omission – a substantial investment towards driver focused technologies that are proven to enhance road safety and save the lives of more Australian road users. This is particularly concerning given the alarming statistics regarding road fatalities and high-risk driving behaviours.

Yet, we used to be world leaders in passenger safety when Victoria introduced the three-point seatbelt in 1970. So, what’s happened to mandating in-vehicle safety measures in Australia since then?

The Current State of Road Safety in Australia

In 2023, the number of deaths on Australian roads surged to 1,310¹, marking an 11.2% increase compared to the year prior. A stark rise that underscores the urgent need for more focused and effective road safety measures. Unfortunately, the current budget allocations do not adequately address this critical and ongoing issue.

Whilst the Australian Federal Budget did announce some investments relevant to road safety and infrastructure, such as $1.9 billion for road and rail projects in Western Sydney and $21 million for the creation of a national road safety data hub, which are commendable, they fall short of addressing the immediate and pressing need for advanced road safety technologies that can save lives today.

By that we mean technology being installed by car and commercial vehicle manufacturers all over the world, which reduce the risks associated with human error, largely emanating from driver distraction and fatigue.

A Call for Government Action

Read more on LinkedIn as we call on the Australian Government to invest in the adoption of technology proven to improve road safety and save lives.

¹Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics Australian Road Deaths Database (ARDD)