Community groups in Bundaberg and the Burnett will be called upon to help tackle Queensland’s rising road toll.
Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett said a $2 million grants program was now open for local groups to deliver local road safety projects.
“The Community Road Safety Grants Program is offering up to $25,000 to non-profit community groups and local governments,” Mr Bennett said.
“We are launching this important program to take action at a local level as part of our plan to stop the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
“This is one of 60 action items identified as part of our Road Safety Action Plan, announced as part of this year’s budget.
“These grants will provide local community groups with the funding they require to develop local solutions to local road safety issues.”
The road toll currently sits at 157, which is 22 more fatalities than the same time last year.
The $350 million Action Plan aims to reduce the road toll through a number of initiatives, including targeting known blackspots, a review of speed limits and changes to learner, senior and motorcycle licensing.
Examples of projects that would be considered as part of the grants program include:
- using volunteer mentor drivers to assist those unable to access lessons
- late night bus services to reduce drink driving in young drivers
- education programs for the safe use of motorised mobility devices
- road accident injury rehabilitation such as generic rehabilitation systems, methods, programs, units or activities.
Applications for the first round of funding close on August 30, 2013 and more information about the program is available at www.tmr.qld.gov.au