$2.57 million has been allocated to improve road safety at 15 dangerous sites across Tasmania, under the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program funding round for 2023-24.
One of the sites being upgraded is the intersection of Central Avenue and Butler Avenue in Moonah. This intersection has been the scene of nine accidents in five years. After securing $100,000 in funding, a roundabout will be built to mitigate crashes.
The Black Spot Program funds safety measures such as traffic signals or roundabouts at locations where a number of serious crashes have occurred, or are at risk of occurring.
The 15 projects were recommended by the Black Spot Consultative Panel in Tasmania. This panel is comprised of local stakeholders who are best placed to ensure nominations of the highest priority and importance to the local community are recommended for approval.
Brian Mitchell MP is the Chair of the Tasmanian Black Spot Consultative Panel which provides the opportunity for stakeholders to have a say in the project selection process, and ensure that nominations of the highest priority and importance to the local community are recommended for approval.
The Tasmanian review panel includes representatives from the Local Government Association of Tasmania, Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania, Tasmanian Transport Association, Tasmanian Motorcycle Council, Tasmanian Bicycle Network, Tasmania Police, and Department of State Growth.
Anyone can nominate a Black Spot for review, including individuals, community groups and local councils. To make a nomination, or obtain further information on the Australian Government Black Spot Program, visit investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/blackspots.
A list of funded projects is provided below.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:
“We’re committed to improving the safety of road networks across Australia, particularly in regional and rural areas, through our $110 million per year road Black Spot Program.
“We’ve worked with the Tasmanian Government, councils across the state and local automotive associations to target their priority projects – with this $2.5 million supporting the delivery of roundabouts, kerb extensions, safety barriers and surface upgrades to reduce the risk of crashes.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and Senator for Tasmania, Senator the Hon Carol Brown:
“The Black Spot Program has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing serious and fatal crashes on our roads.
“Tasmania has had a tragic eight months with 18 people losing their lives on our roads in 2023.
“Programs like the Black Spot Program are important as we work towards Vision Zero – no deaths or significant injuries on our roads by 2050.
“Anyone can nominate a Black Spot site for consideration, and I encourage individuals, organisations, and state and local governments to apply for Black Spot funding.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of the Tasmanian Black Spot Consultative Committee, and Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell MP:
“I am pleased to announce this funding to improve safety at 15 dangerous sites across Tasmania.
“These projects have been funded following nominations from those who know our local roads best – members of the public, local councils and road user groups.
“These works will help ensure a safer trip home for all road users.”
