Victoria is considering a bold move to improve road safety: cutting speed limits to 30km/h on residential streets. The proposal, from Infrastructure Victoria, aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries—especially among children, cyclists, and pedestrians—by targeting the areas where people live, walk, and play.
Dylan Anderson
Why 30km/h Is On the Table
This speed limit change is part of Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year draft strategy, which outlines over $75 billion in infrastructure improvements. One of the standout safety proposals is the introduction of a 30km/h speed cap for residential areas, particularly around schools, playgrounds, and local shopping hubs.
Currently, the default urban speed limit is 50km/h. But data paints a clear picture:
- A pedestrian hit at 50km/h faces an 85% chance of death.
- At 30km/h, the fatality risk drops to just 10%.
Authorities believe the change could dramatically improve outcomes with only a minor impact on travel time.
What’s Already Been Trialled?
The City of Yarra has led the way, launching a 30km/h trial in Fitzroy and Collingwood in 2018, expanded further in 2024. Major arterial roads like Nicholson and Hoddle Streets were excluded.
The trial, supported by the Department of Transport and Planning and the TAC, showed improved community sentiment and reduced speeding. Advocates include:
- Victoria Walks
- Amy Gillett Foundation
- Bicycle Network
Dylan Anderson
Will It Be Enforced?
While the plan is only a recommendation in a draft report, its success would depend on:
- Community support during consultation
- Council cooperation
- Physical street changes to encourage slower driving
Victoria Police have acknowledged that without changes to road design, enforcing 30km/h limits could be a challenge. Experts agree that infrastructure is key—things like speed bumps, narrowed lanes, and chicanes are more effective than signs alone.
What Locals Think
Discussion on forums like Reddit's r/melbourne highlights a mix of support and skepticism:
- Some locals believe lower speed limits would make streets safer and more livable.
- Others worry it would be hard to enforce or that it may be perceived as a revenue grab.
Part of a Bigger Plan
This proposed limit is just one part of a much broader strategy, which includes:
- $8B in hospital expansions
- $5.7B for new schools
- A shift from stamp duty to land tax
- Public transport upgrades, including City Loop tunnel improvements
With Victoria’s population set to hit 11.5 million by 2055, the government is looking to future-proof infrastructure and reduce transport risks.
What Happens Next?
The public can now weigh in via Infrastructure Victoria’s online portal. Final recommendations will follow after consultation.
Whether this speed limit becomes law or not, the move signals Victoria’s willingness to rethink how safety, speed, and urban life intersect.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
