Council Adopts New Road Safety Strategy
Published on 17 November 2025
17 November 2025
COUNCIL ADOPTS NEW ROAD SAFETY STRATEGY TO MAKE HAMILTON’S CBD SAFER FOR EVERYONE
Southern Grampians Shire Council adopted the Hamilton Central Business District (CBD) Road Safety Strategy 2025–2035 at the 12 November Council Meeting, setting a clear path toward safer and more accessible streets in the heart of Hamilton.
Developed in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), the Strategy focuses on reducing serious injuries, preventing fatalities, and improving safety for all road users - whether driving, walking, cycling, or using mobility aids.
The Strategy was developed following detailed local road safety audits and data analysis which identified 19 casualty crashes within the CBD between 2019 and 2023, including five serious injuries. Most incidents occurred at intersections or crossings, often due to limited visibility, high vehicle speeds, and a lack of safe pedestrian infrastructure.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the Strategy demonstrates Council’s strong commitment to safer streets and community wellbeing.
“We know how important it is for people to feel safe moving around our town centre,” Cr Heslin said.
“This Strategy gives us a practical roadmap to make that happen through safer crossings, better visibility, speed management, and community education.
“It’s about creating a CBD that’s safe, welcoming, and easy for everyone to get around.”
The 10-year plan adopts the Safe System approach, aligning with national and state road safety goals, including Vision Zero - a long-term commitment to eliminating deaths and halving serious injuries on our roads.
Key priorities include:
- Installing raised pedestrian (‘wombat’) crossings, particularly near schools
- Improving intersection safety and sightlines
- Investigating traffic calming and safer speed options in key areas
- Enhancing cyclist and micro-mobility safety
- Running education campaigns for students and drivers
Funding to implement priority safety improvements will be sought through TAC and DTP programs such as the Safe Local Roads and Streets initiative.
The Strategy will be reviewed every two years to ensure it remains effective and responsive to emerging safety needs.
“This isn’t a one-off plan; it’s a living document that will guide improvements and investment over the next decade. We’re proud to take this step toward a safer, more connected, and more vibrant Hamilton,” Cr Heslin concluded.
The Hamilton CBD Road Safety Strategy 2025–2035 will also serve as a model for future road safety planning across the wider Shire. For more information visit Home Southern Grampians Shire Council
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