Brisbane Line October 2010 - Road Trauma is Breaking the Nation

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Horror keeps coming on roads

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Three dead in horror crash with tanker on Capricorn Highway

R.I.P.  Sincere condolences to family friends and colleagues ...

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Road toll on track to hit record low

Queensland is on track to have the lowest road toll on record thanks to the LNP Newman Government's Road Safety Action plan, police enforcement and the vigilance of drivers.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said as the year is coming to an end, all road users were encouraged to continue their vigilance and make 2014 the safest year on our roads.

"Today, the 2014 road toll stands at 223, which is 48 less than last year's road toll," Mr Emerson said.

"Until this year, our lowest record benchmark was in 2010. However we are 26 below that toll currently and while any death on our road is a tragedy, all Queenslanders should be congratulated for their patience, attention, caution and observing the fatal five.

"Looking back through history it is a sobering fact that the highest road toll was 638 in 1973 and while the state's population has more than doubled since then, the road toll has more than halved."

Mr Emerson said while the state was finishing the year with a record low road toll, Queenslanders were being urged to remain vigilant on the roads as the summer holidays continue into 2015.

"The LNP Government is a strong team with a strong plan to make our roads safer for all Queenslanders and that is why we have delivered a $350 million Road Safety Action Plan," he said.

"As part of this, we have been actively encouraging the community to understand the dangers of the fatal five when driving on our roads: speeding, drink and drug driving, failure to wear a seatbelt and driving while fatigued or distracted.

"The community has been able to get on board with road safety in one way or another through our Join the Drive campaign which is a fresh, modern approach to our frontline campaigns shying away from images of gore and broken bones that are no longer working.

"We have also been educating Queenslanders to share the road as part of our Thanks Queensland campaign."

These measures, in conjunction with the positive attitudes of Queenslanders being more aware of their actions on the road, have all helped contribute to the encouraging reduction in the road toll.

[ENDS] 30 December 2014

=================

^

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

@scottemerson Good that deaths are down. But real picture is hidden, injuries and number of serious crashes is not publicised, why? #qldpol

[ozbob]

Herald Sun --> Truckies drive 16-hour days, use ice, speed to stay awake

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Five road deaths on Sunday

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Council --> Council on a mission to stop road accident heartache

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Easter road toll highest in more than a decade

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Queensland heads for worst road toll in 20 years

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Queensland Government plans forum after horror Easter road toll

[ozbob]

Media Statements

JOINT STATEMENT

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Jo-Ann Miller

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2015/4/7/palaszczuk-government-establishes-safer-roads-safer-queensland-forum

Tuesday, April 07, 2015

Palaszczuk Government establishes Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum

Police and road safety experts will meet with Queensland Government Ministers this week for top level talks on road safety.

The state's peak road safety organisations – RACQ and CARRS-Q – will join other key stakeholders at the Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum to discuss ways to address the unacceptable Easter road toll on the state's roads.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum would draw on the advice of road safety experts and key stakeholders.

"The tragic loss of lives on Queensland's roads over Easter should not have happened. We all need to work together to ensure it doesn't happen again," he said.

"This is an opportunity to lay everything out on the table. Let's look at what works, what can work better and what steps need to be taken to curb this alarming spike in the state's road toll.

"The forum is the first step in what will be a concerted campaign to maintain safety on Queensland's road network.

"We want to hear from road safety experts about what may need to be implemented in the short term and any measures that may need to be implemented in the future."

Mr Bailey said road safety was everyone's responsibility.

"If it's left to governments alone it will never work," he said.

"We all need to get involved. We're also keen to hear the views of the broader community and will take that feedback on board.

"Ultimately, our aim is to maintain safety on Queensland's road network for all road users.

"While governments spend billions of dollars a year building and maintaining a safe and reliable road network, nothing is more important than the men, women and children who travel on our roads."

Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Jo-Ann Miller said this year's Easter road toll was the worst since seasonal records began in 1992.

"My heart goes out to all of the families affected by what has been a tragic period on our roads," Mrs Miller said.

"Eight people died on Queensland roads over the Easter long weekend. Eight deaths is eight too many.

"Last Easter, three people lost their lives in crashes. This year, it's nearly triple that and the Easter period isn't over yet.

"That's why we want to get as many experts as possible around the table to recommend what needs to be done to help make Queensland roads safer."

Mrs Miller said the Government wanted to develop a plan with broad-based community support and a wide range of views from different stakeholders.

"This is in line with our commitment to be a consultative government and to keep Queenslanders safe," she said.

Mrs Miller said during the remainder of the Easter holiday period, police will be out in force targeting high risk road behaviour including the fatal five – speeding, fatigue, drink and drug driving, driver distraction and drivers not wearing seatbelts.

"Please take a moment to think about how your driving habits could impact your life and the lives of those around you," Mrs Miller said.

The first phase of the QPS road safety campaign ended at midnight. Phase two will run from today until the end of the Easter school holidays.

[Jonno]

Should this not be safer transport By selecting the mode the debate is fenced in/limited to road solutions!!!

[ozbob]

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Top level talks underway for Safer Roads, Safer Queensland

Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Jo-Ann Miller and Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Mark Bailey said that today's Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum at Parliament House is the first step in a concerted campaign to maintain safety on Queensland's vast road network.

The Palaszczuk Labor Government convened the forum following the worst Easter road toll in Queensland in more than 20 years. More than 50 delegates, including representatives from key stakeholders, such as the RACQ and CARRS-Q, will join road safety experts to work with government on ways to address the spike in the road toll.

Minister Miller said that in the past week, 11 people had died on Queensland roads in accidents that potentially could have been avoided.

"We must turn these terrible statistics around. The families and friends of those who lost their lives join the loved ones of the other 61 victims who died in road crashes this year.

"This forum is an opportunity for all of us to share ideas and strategies to maintain safety on our roads. It's a critical issue and one that demands further public attention and action, Ms Miller said.

The annual cost of road fatalities and injuries to the Queensland economy is estimated to be more than $4 billion, making it a significant public health issue.

Last year, 223 people lost their lives on Queensland roads. The number of hospitalised casualties is on the rise. Nearly 7,000 Queenslanders sustain life-changing injuries year on year as a result of serious road crashes.

"The total economic, social and emotional costs of serious road trauma on this scale are enormous and enduring," she said.

Minister Bailey said the forum is an opportunity for delegates to lay everything out on the table.

"Let's look at what works, what can work better and what steps need to be taken to curb this spike in the state's road toll.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility. We can talk until we're blue in the face, but what we really need is action. We need to commit to a strategy and plan of action that will make a real difference.

"Over the coming months, we will release a new road safety strategy and action plan for the next two years and mobilise others to join us. The ideas and strategies from today's forum, along with feedback from the broader community will play a crucial role in formulating new policies and road safety initiatives.

"Past experience has shown that when governments are able to tap into the collective policy firepower, resources and ideas of business, industry and the community, road safety is improved. That's our aim today," Mr Bailey said.

People, organisations and community groups are able to provide their feedback via email to mainroads@ministerial.qld.gov.au or by phoning 3066 2692 during business hours.

The strategies and ideas that flow from today's forum, along with community feedback, will be assessed and reviewed by a steering committee, which will report back to government by mid May 2015.

[ozbob]

Fatality Free Friday > http://www.fatalityfreefriday.com/about/our-aims/#.VWdppkb65_d

[ozbob]

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Road safety action plan to save lives on Queensland roads

Minister for Road Safety Mark Bailey today released the Palaszczuk Government's new Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan, a road map to improve safety, reduce injury and curb the state's road toll.

The strategy sets a long-term target to reduce the road toll from the four-year average (2011-14) by more than a quarter to below 200 by 2020 and reduce the number of hospitalisations from road accidents.

The Action Plan includes 57 initiatives, and builds on the work of the Queensland Government's Safer Roads, Safer Queensland Forum.

"The Palaszczuk Government's action plan targets Queensland's road toll and aims to drastically reduce the number of crash deaths and serious injuries on the state's roads," Mr Bailey said.

"The plan is the culmination of discussions and solutions put forward by the experts at the Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum held in April this year.

"The Palaszczuk Government is investing more than $500 million over two years for important road safety programs to fund the implementation of the 57 initiatives in the action plan."

Key initiatives in the 2015-17 Action Plan include:

    Establish a Citizen's Taskforce to make recommendations to government about road safety issues.
    Implement "CO-LAB"; a program to engage 16 – 21 year olds on road safety.
    Reforming motorcycle licensing including implementing pre-learner training courses.
    Introduce an app version of the 100-hour learner logbook, including periodic reminders for learners to focus on certain driving situations such as night time, wet weather and highway driving.
    Install flashing lights in 200 risk-assessed school zones.
    Introduce double demerit points for two or more mobile phone offences committed within one year.
    Advocate at the national level for the roll out of seatbelt interlock technology that would prevent the engine starting before the passenger clicks in their seat belt.
    Improve safety for vulnerable road users by making available $10 million to improve infrastructure safety for bicycle riders and pedestrian and $27 million over two years for the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

The Safer Roads, Safer Queensland Forum meeting today at Queensland Parliament House will also consider the introduction of double demerits for drivers caught speeding in school zones.

To view the new Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan visit http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/Road-safety/Strategy-and-action-plans.aspx

[ozbob]

Safer Roads, Safer Queensland: Queensland's Road Safety Strategy 2015-2021

> http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/Road-safety/~/media/Safety/roadsafety/Strategy%20and%20action%20plans/roadsafetystrategy201521.pdf

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow  32 minutes ago
. @JoinTheDrive Good.  What about safer transport modes?  Appears to be forgotten about ...  ping @MarkBaileyMP  #SaferRoadsSaferQLD

==================

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow  32 minutes ago
. @JoinTheDrive @MarkBaileyMP Giving people real alternatives to road mayhem & carnage must be part of the solution. #SaferRoadsSaferQLD

==================

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 29 minutes ago
. @JoinTheDrive @MarkBaileyMP Who is standing up for pedestrians?  More trips by foot than any mode ... #SaferRoadsSaferQLD

[johnnigh]

Looks like the only point that has relevance is $10m for ped and bike infrastructure. A piddling amount. And to judge from current attitudes, won't go to changing real safety at all. Take Councillor Matic's view that separated on-road facilities (e.g., Copenhagen lanes – cycle lane at footpath edge, parking adjacent to traffic lanes) 'isn't part of Australian practice'. So go jump, cyclists, mix it with cars and to hell with you all.

Neither bureaucrats nor politicians have any interest in real change.

[ozbob]

Received this response John ..

=============

Twitter

Mark Bailey MP ‏@MarkBaileyMP 1 hour ago

@Robert_Dow @JoinTheDrive $37m extra in Palaszczuk budget for cycling infrastr & safety Rob + new cycleways on Gateway North upgrade & MBRL

[johnnigh]

All very well, but still a piddling amount. TMR does it's little bit, often a bit better than local councils (e.g., the new bridge over Moggill Rd), but issues such as Sylvan Rd and the Indooroopilly Rd approach to Gailey Rd five-ways, to mention just two, that the CBDBUG tears its collective hair about, mean that safety concern will keep all but the current gung-ho commuters in their cars in our cities. The fact that benefit cost ratios for ped and cycle infrastructure projects are enormous relative to road and even rail projects seems to cut no ice with bureaucrats intent on spectacle – shades of Utopia!

[Stillwater]

And the projects supporting the strategy are .......... ? 

[James]

All very well, but still a piddling amount. TMR does it's little bit, often a bit better than local councils (e.g., the new bridge over Moggill Rd), but issues such as Sylvan Rd and the Indooroopilly Rd approach to Gailey Rd five-ways, to mention just two, that the CBDBUG tears its collective hair about, mean that safety concern will keep all but the current gung-ho commuters in their cars in our cities. The fact that benefit cost ratios for ped and cycle infrastructure projects are enormous relative to road and even rail projects seems to cut no ice with bureaucrats intent on spectacle – shades of Utopia!

I'm curious - since the recent upgrade to make the Gailey Fiveways roundabout safer for cyclists by giving them a dedicated path, is there really much wrong with this intersection? I know it really isn't a great roundabout at the best of times thanks to the volume of traffic and restricted sight lines on some approaches (not to mention the entire thing is on a slope), but there's no easy way to get up the ridge there from that direction.

I agree that Sylvan Rd is a shocker. On-street parking should be removed and replaced with bike lanes.

[ozbob]

Twitter

Adam Carey ‏@adamlcarey Sep 14

Grim Monday stat: August was the deadliest month on Australia's roads in three years - 119 dead.

http://bitre.gov.au/publications/ongoing/rda/files/RDA_Aug_2015.pdf ...

[ozbob]

Rail Express --> Our cars are killing us – so how do we wean ourselves off them?

[ozbob]

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Road users implored to take more care over holiday period

The Palaszczuk Government is imploring Queensland motorists to take more care and drive responsibly during the September school holiday period.

Minister for Road Safety Mark Bailey has urged families to stay safe while driving after a horror weekend on the state's roads.

"I urge all motorists to obey speed limits, drive to the conditions and keep your eyes firmly fixed on the road," Mr Bailey said.

"It's been another tragic start to a holiday period with six people losing their lives on our roads over the weekend, it's just not good enough.

"My heart goes out to all the families involved and it's just the worst possible start to what should be a fun holiday period for so many families."

"The clear safety messages we are sending out are not getting through to motorists and we don't want a repeat of the shocking Easter road toll back in April.

The Palaszczuk Government has committed to improving road safety with harsher laws now in effect for drivers who repeatedly use their mobile phones behind the wheel.

"Motorists should be vigilant at all times because road deaths are heartbreaking for the whole community and sadly most of them are preventable," Mr Bailey said.

"The golden rules are for drivers to slow down, obey the road rules, put your mobile phone away and don't drive tired or under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

"There is nothing so important that involves risking your life and those of other road users while driving to and from destinations, it's as simple as that."

There have been 169 fatalities on Queensland roads so far this year, 162 people died during the same period in 2014. 

ENDS

=====================

[SurfRail]

Can you imagine the noise everybody would be making if the rail system killed between 5-6 people a year in accidents (excluding suicides)?  That's about the same numbers for Brisbane proportionately.

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Research shows Australians must lose weight to save money & help improve the economy

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> The 'fatal five' causes of road trauma: who's in control?

[ozbob]

Media Release
Treasurer, Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
The Honourable Curtis Pitt

Queensland to protect people catastrophically injured in traffic crashes

The Queensland Government is considering options to implement the National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) to provide reasonable and necessary care and support for people catastrophically injured in road traffic crashes, irrespective of fault.

Treasurer Curtis Pitt said options to implement the scheme to give Queenslanders the coverage and certainty enjoyed by other Australians had been referred to the bipartisan Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Parliamentary Committee for consideration.

The terms of reference for the parliamentary committee have been set and stakeholders and the community can now contribute to the discussion.

"Unless we act now, Queensland will be the only state or territory in Australia without a lifetime care and support scheme in place by 1 July next year," he said.

"That's unacceptable when you consider that each week about three Queenslanders sustain life-changing, catastrophic injuries as a result of a road traffic crash.

"When a catastrophic injury is sustained an individual, it also has significant impacts on the families and carers of those who are injured.

"This scheme will support the individual, their family and carer, and it's something that Queenslanders will welcome."

Mr Pitt said around half of all people catastrophically injured in a road traffic crashes are not currently eligible to claim against compulsory third party insurance to fund the care and support they will need across their lifetime.

"Queensland's current compulsory third party insurance scheme does not provide cover for injured people who are at fault or in situations where there is no negligent party involved.

"It's imperative that we move to address this issue so that those with catastrophic – injuries, arising from road traffic crashes, get the lifetime care and support they need.

"The Palaszczuk Government is committed to implementing the scheme after the former LNP government signed Queensland up to a national agreement on minimum benchmarks for insurance coverage in 2013.

"The LNP didn't implement the scheme, which is why Labor is getting on with the job of delivering it for Queenslanders.

"I would expect bipartisan support from the LNP for this important initiative."

Disability Services Minister Coralee O'Rourke said the Australian Government Productivity Commission recommended the establishment of the NIIS, in conjunction with the National Disability Insurance Scheme – recommendations which would be delivered by the Palaszczuk Government.

"The Palaszczuk Government is committed to building a safe and caring community that shows compassion for people with disability, including those who suffer catastrophic injuries," Mrs O'Rourke said.

"Both schemes are about making sure people with disability can get work, be more involved in the community and improve their quality of life."

For more information on NIIS and to view the terms of reference for the parliamentary inquiry visit: www.maic.qld.gov.au

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Day of road carnage leaves Queensland's toll 11 ahead of last year

[ozbob]

Melbourne Age --> Injuries, not deaths, the best indicator of road trauma: expert

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Ban trucks without blind-spot tech: Coroner

[ozbob]

Media Release
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Bill Byrne

Queensland drivers urged to take care to avoid Christmas carnage on roads

This Christmas Queensland is saluting 'dry drivers' who do their bit to keep their family and friends safe on the roads

Police Minister Bill Byrne and Acting Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Leeanne Enoch said this year's Christmas road safety campaign – Dry Driver – recognised the importance of designated drivers.

Launching the 2015 Christmas Road Safety Campaign alongside Police Commissioner Ian Stewart and officers from Road Policing Command, Minister Byrne urged all road users to take extra care over the festive season.

"Already this year we have seen too many funerals and too much trauma linked to road accidents," Mr Byrne said.

"There have been 228 deaths already in 2015 and each fatality and every crash which injures or maims is one too many.

"The emphasis of this holiday's enforcement campaign is on drink driving, which complements the advertising campaign that gets under way today.

"I'm also urging all those who are planning long journeys to take their time and plan for regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

"The carnage that is unfortunately associated with driving at this time of year has to stop."

Minister Enoch said drink driving caused one in five fatalities on Queensland roads.

"If you are going to celebrate with a drink this Christmas and New Year season, make a plan before you head out," Ms Enoch said.

"We need to do everything we can to stay safe on our roads and being a 'dry driver' is one way to play your part."

Commissioner Stewart said the 2015 police campaign would focus on the fatal five of speeding, drink or drug driving, fatigue, seat belts and distraction and promised police would be highly visible during a state-wide operation up to midnight on January 29, 2016.

"I'm always saddened with any loss of life or injury on our roads. We will only stop these tragedies if all road users commit to obeying the road rules and drive to the conditions.

"Police will be highly visible throughout the holiday period. A number of operations will take place throughout the state and we will continue to enforce the road rules.

"If you offend you will be caught – everyone must play their part in road safety whether it is by complying with the road rules, enforcing them, or educating others in safe behaviours," the Commissioner said.

Last year's Christmas period saw 22 people lose their lives and 1,649 injury crashes. Police conducted 518,264 breath tests with 3,208 returning a positive reading.

Out of 1232 drug tests, 372 drug drivers were detected. Police caught 29,586 speeders, detected 2928 mobile phone offences and 1938 seat belt offences.

The Palaszczuk Government's Dry Driver campaign starts today and will include TV, radio, digital, cinema and outdoor advertising and a strong social media presence.

"While having broad appeal, the campaign specifically targets males, who make up almost 86% of drink drivers in fatal crashes," Ms Enoch said.

"Everyone processes alcohol differently, making it impossible to predict whether you're under the legal limit or not.

"Counting drinks is especially challenging with so many new products on the market with varying levels of alcohol and a range of serving sizes.

"It is just so simple to stay safe by designating a driver, arranging a lift, catching a cab or public transport or staying at a mate's house.

"We need to thank and appreciate every designated dry driver for their consideration, good sense and goodwill as they are the people, along with the police, who will be making our roads safer this festive season."

Visit www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au for more advice about staying safe on the road.

[ozbob]

Media Statements
Treasurer, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Minister for Sport
The Honourable Curtis Pitt

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

More than $100 million boost for road safety

The Palaszczuk Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing road trauma, announcing an additional $102.2 million over four years for road safety programs.

Releasing today's Mid-Year Financial and Economic Review, Treasurer Curtis Pitt announced an additional $102.2 million in funds would come from the Camera Detected Offence Program.

"This injection of funding will provide targeted road safety infrastructure through initiatives such as our Safer Roads Sooner program and increase road safety education through the Join the Drive to Save Lives campaign" Mr Pitt said.

"A significant proportion of funding for road safety comes from the Camera Detected Offence Program, with the funding being allocated to relevant projects in line with safety priorities.

"Revenue from the Camera Detected Offence Program is protected under legislation and is required to be reinvested in road safety."

Acting Minister for Road Safety Leanne Enoch said while zero road deaths is an ambitious target, the Palaszczuk Government refused to accept road trauma as an inevitable part of using the roads.

"Coming into the busy holiday season period this Christmas, it's saddening to know we have already exceeded the 2014 record low road toll of 223 deaths," Ms Enoch said.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility and if we work together, we can make a difference.

"We are committed to protecting all road users, which is why our Road Safety Strategy sets a vision for the future of zero road deaths and serious injuries."

[ozbob]

Toowoomba Chronicle --> Serious injuries in bus and car crash on Warrego Hwy

Bus 18 passengers, 3 minor injuries.

Car - one critical injury, other minor.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/1/1/drivers-urged-to-make-safety-a-priority-in-the-new-year

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Drivers urged to make safety a priority in the New Year

Motorists have been urged to put road safety at the front of their minds with this year's road toll exceeding 2014's record low by 19 deaths.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said, as at midnight last night, Queensland's annual road toll was 242.

"While 2014's Queensland road toll was the lowest ever recorded it's disappointing that we could not reduce the number of fatalities even further in 2015," Mr Bailey said.

This year's road toll is the second lowest since records were first started in 1952. Across Australia there have been slight increases in the most populous states of New South Wales and Victoria.

"This heart-wrenching tally of 242 is a sober reminder that we all need to think safety first," Mr Bailey said.

"As we begin the New Year, I urge Queenslanders to no longer accept this avoidable and tragic loss. It is up to each individual to take responsibility for their behaviour on the roads."

The Palaszczuk Government is committed to road safety and driving the road toll down.

In August, the Government released its new Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan to reduce injury and curb the state's road toll. The strategy sets a target to reduce the road toll below 200 by 2020 and reduce the number of hospitalisations from road crashes.

"Our goal is to eventually reduce the number of deaths on our roads to zero," Mr Bailey said.

"This year we have commissioned education campaigns to reduce the number of distracted drivers, increase awareness of the dangers of driving in flood waters, target motorcycle rider safety and promote dry drivers."

Tips to stay safe on the roads:

    Plan ahead to avoid driving after drinking – organise a lift, catch a cab or public transport, designate a driver or stay at a mate's place.
    Never use your phone while driving – it is little different to driving drunk.
    Don't rush – stick to the speed limit and allow extra time for your journey.
    Get a good night's sleep before you hit the road and make sure you take regular breaks on long trips – fatigue kills.
    Always buckle up.
    Drive to the conditions – increase your following distance and drive slower than the signed speed limit if stuck in bad weather (or delay your trip until the weather clears).
    Remember – if it's flooded, forget it.

For more safety information visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au.

Mr Bailey also urged more road users to Join the Drive to Save Lives by visiting www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au.

Road Safety Initiatives 2015

    Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum (April)
    New skills-based learner practical driver test (June)
    Targeted motorcycle safety ads - The Perfect Ride (June)
    Release of a discussion paper on motorcycle licensing reforms, including the implementation of pre-learner training courses (August)
    Road Safety Action Plan and Strategy launched (August/September)
    Double Demerits for repeat mobile phone use offenders while driving (September)
    "If Its Flooded Forget It" ad campaign launched (November)
    Co-lab Youth Innovation Competition – youth initiated road safety innovation winners announced (October)
    Citizens Taskforce to develop innovative road safety solutions met for the first time (November)
    Christmas Dry Driver ad campaign (December)
    Road safety campaigns throughout the year, and will continue over the remainder of the school holiday period.

Road Safety Initiatives 2016-2017

    Over the next two years the Palaszczuk Government will deliver more than $500 million on road safety programs including:

          o   Improved road infrastructure targeting highest risk locations

          o   Rolling out the 'Wide Centreline' highway project

          o   Motorcycle licencing reforms

          o   Citizens Task Force to deliver proposals

    Young Driver Safety Campaign "Settle Down Stallion"  from Co-lab to be launched on digital media.

    The Government has a number of initiatives to address speeding including:

          o    The installation of 4 new point to point speed cameras and 10 red light/speed cameras over the next 2 years to enhance the current program.  (These cameras will be installed at locations that have a history of speed-related crashes or crashes involving motorists disobeying traffic lights.)

          o   The Government is also continuing to address speeding in school zones and will install flashing school zone signs at a further 200 school zones in the next two years.

ENDS

[ozbob]

Media Statements
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey
Sunday, March 20, 2016

New Easter road safety campaign to "change the way we look at speed"

Following last year's horror Easter road toll on Queensland roads, a new road safety campaign is urging drivers to rethink their speed and slow down.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the Easter road safety campaign, launched today, targeted speeding drivers and challenged the perception that even low-level speeding is acceptable.

"Last year the Easter road toll was the worst in more than 20 years. Eight people were tragically killed on our roads in a five-day period - five of those fatalities were caused by speeding," Mr Bailey said.

"This Easter long weekend and school holidays many families will be traveling on our roads, and I want to urge Queensland motorists to make safety their number one priority on the roads.

"Today we're launching our Easter road safety campaign to highlight the dangers of low-level speeding and challenge drivers to rethink their attitude to travelling even just a few kilometres over the set limit.

"Nothing is more important than the safety of the people who travel on the state's vast road network."

Mr Bailey said around half of all speed-related crashes resulting in injuries or fatalities happened at just 10km/h or less over the speed limit.

"Even though speeding still remains one of the major killers on Queensland roads, many people wrongly believe it's not dangerous, and they can do it safety if they're only a little over" he said. 

"A recent study found 94 per cent of those surveyed claimed they sped at least occasionally and half claimed to speed on most trips – this is a horrifying statistic.

"Speed limits are not a recommendation, they are there to prevent the thousands of avoidable deaths and serious injuries that occur on our roads.

"The campaign theme — Let's change the way we look at speed — is part of a long-term strategy to discourage and stigmatise speeding among Queensland road users and change attitudes."

Mr Bailey said the first phase of the campaign will run for four weeks from tonight, including the school holiday period.

Tips to stay safe on the roads during the Easter period:

    Plan ahead to avoid driving after drinking – organise a lift, catch a cab or public transport, designate a driver or stay at a mate's place.
    Never use your phone while driving – it is little different to driving drunk.
    Don't rush – stick to the speed limit and allow extra time for your journey.
    Get a good night's sleep before you hit the road and make sure you take regular breaks on long trips – fatigue kills.
    Always buckle up.
    Drive to the conditions – increase your following distance and drive slower than the signed speed limit if stuck in bad weather (or delay your trip until the weather clears).
    Remember – if it's flooded, forget it.

For more information and to view the television advertisement visit www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au 

ENDS

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Media Statements

JOINT STATEMENT

Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services
The Honourable Cameron Dick

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Bill Byrne

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Easter Road Safety Campaign targets Fatal Five

The Palaszczuk Government and emergency services are targeting the Fatal Five over the Easter holiday period and urging Queenslanders to take extra care on the roads.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Bill Byrne and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Cameron Dick today joined Queensland's emergency services to launch the 2016 Easter Road Safety Campaign.

The Fatal Five - drink driving and drug driving, fatigue, inattention, not using a seat belt and speeding - are the most common killers on Queensland roads.

Minister Byrne pleaded with motorists to heed the Fatal Five message and avoid a repeat of last year's tragic spike in the Easter road toll.

"During last year's five-day Easter period, there were eight fatalities on our roads and 295 injury crashes causing 366 injuries," he said.

Over that period, police conducted 97,141 breath tests with 361 drink drivers returning a positive reading, and out of 523 drug tests conducted statewide, 55 drug drivers were detected.

Police also caught 5147 motorists speeding, while 228 seat belt offences and 250 mobile phone offences occurred.

"I urge all road users to be extra vigilant and careful on the roads this Easter. We must all work hard to turn these statistics around," Minister Byrne said.

"Easter is one of the busiest periods on our roads. It's a time when many families travel long distances to reach their holiday destination.

"This Easter, we want them to get there safely."

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Cameron Dick, who was first on the scene of a fatal crash near Gin Gin over the Christmas period, said the effects of road accidents extended far beyond those visible at the roadside.

"It's a sad reality that every holiday period Queensland's paramedics are called to trauma cases as a result of road accidents across the state," he said.

"They are met with scenes of carnage that could have been avoided and battle to save lives that should have been spared.

"We are calling on Queensland drivers to do what they can to prevent these scenes from unfolding - for their sake, for the sake of their families and friends, and for the sake those who are first to respond when incidents happen behind the wheel."

Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating said QPS would play a key role in ensuring road safety and compliance by coordinating a state-wide traffic operation starting today.

Assistant Commissioner Keating called for the support of the Queensland public to exercise safe road behaviours over Easter and specifically to heed the warning of the dangers of speeding.

"Last year, Queensland's road toll was 243. So far in 2016, the road toll stands at 54, which is already ten more than the same time last year," he said.

"Road safety is a shared responsibility – everyone must play their part, whether that is by complying with the road rules, enforcing them, or educating others in safe behaviours."

The QPS traffic operation will run until midnight on March 28.

ENDS

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/3/30/the-palaszczuk-government-thanks-drivers-for-zero-fatalities-on-queensland-roads-over-easter

Media Statements
Acting Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk
Wednesday, March 30, 2016

The Palaszczuk Government thanks drivers for Zero fatalities on Queensland roads over Easter

The Palaszczuk Government has today thanked Queenslanders for helping to make it the safest Easter on the state's roads in twenty years.

Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said after last year's tragic holiday period, it was clear that road safety was on everyone's mind.

"Last year the Easter road toll was the worst we have had in more than 20 years. Eight people were tragically killed on our roads in a five-day period," Mr Bailey said.

"In response, the Palaszczuk Government initiated the Safer Roads, Safer Queensland Forum bringing together a broad range of road safety stakeholders, and launched our Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan.

"The last time we had zero deaths on Queensland roads over Easter was in 1996, making this year our lowest Easter road toll in twenty years.

"While these figures are a relief, I urge all Queenslanders to continue to make safety the number one priority on our roads, every time they drive."

"We all need to join together to raise awareness and responsibility on our roads to help save lives and reduce the burden of road trauma on our communities.

Police Minister Bill Byrne said although no-one had died this year, 147 people had been injured in 110 crashes across the state.

"While we've seen some encouraging results over the long weekend, there are still families whose lives have been changed forever with loved ones seriously injured in crashes," Mr Byrne said.

"Overall, fewer drivers have been caught speeding – with a significant decrease in the number of fixed speed camera detections down about thirty per cent.

"The Queensland Police Service will continue to focus on speeding as part of the dedicated speed campaign with 800 pieces of road measuring equipment are out on roads across the state.

"Over the last 18 months an additional 350 officers have also been trained to perform roadside drug tests – that has seen 205 drivers detected with an illicit substance in their system, up from 55 last year.

"Remember the fatal five – including drug driving. I would encourage drivers to continue to drive safety and make smart decisions on our roads.

"We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable school holiday period."

Road safety initiatives implemented following the Easter 2015 road toll:

    New skills-based learner practical driver test
    Double demerits for repeat mobile phone use offenders while driving
    Targeted motorcycle safety ads
    The successful 'Dry Driver' ad campaign against drink driving
    The new Easter speed campaign seeking to change the way we look at speed
    Co-lab Youth Innovation Competition
    Creating the road safety Citizens Taskforce
    Holding the first Ministerial Freight Council and release of Palaszczuk Government's Heavy Vehicle Safety Action Plan

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Sky News --> Federal road safety minister likely

A dedicated federal road safety minister is likely to come soon following a spike in Australian road deaths.

More than 640 people have died on Australian roads in the year to June - almost 11 per cent more than in the same period in 2015, according to Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development statistics.

The Australian Automobile Association, Australasian New Car Assessment Program and the Australasian College of Road Safety issued a joint statement on Sunday calling for a dedicated federal road safety minister.

'Clearly we are heading in the wrong direction and there is the need for the Federal Government to lead in the development of policies to deliver safer drivers, safer cars, and safer roads,' AAA chief executive Michael Bradley said.

AAP
- See more at: http://www.skynews.com.au/news/national/2016/07/17/federal-road-safety-minister-likely.html#sthash.zQf42Ih6.dpuf

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BIC: Health and Public Transport --> http://bic.asn.au/information-for-moving-people/health-and-public-transport

Health and Public Transport

"People who use public transport are five times more physical active."

Public Transport and Physical Activity

Using public transport increases physical activity and helps reduce the chance of obesity and other health problems related to sedentary lifestyles.

The Victorian Integrated Survey of Travel and Activity (VISTA) of 43,800 Melbournians found that people who used public transport on a given day also spent an average of 41 minutes walking or cycling as part of their travel.[1]

This figure was 8 times greater on average than survey respondents using private transport, who recorded 8 minutes of physical activity a day.[2]

A Perth study found commuters using public transport accumulated seven times more exercise than private motorists.[3]

Every additional hour spent behind the wheel of a car increases a commuter's risk of obesity by 6 per cent.[4]

Figure 1: Average daily minutes of walking and cycling for modal choice between cars, park and ride and public transport use.[5]