Western Australia is considering a landmark speed limit trial that could see limits reduced on over 1,800 roads across the South West. The Safer Speeds Trial, developed by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the City of Busselton, in partnership with the RAC, is designed to assess whether lower speed limits can help reduce the state’s increasing road toll.
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Key Speed Reduction Proposals
If approved, the trial will cover around 550 roads in Augusta Margaret River and 1,250 roads in Busselton. Implementation could begin as early as mid-2025. Proposed changes include:
- Rural sealed roads (currently 80–110km/h): reduced to 70–80km/h
- Urban major roads (e.g. Bussell Highway, Bayview Drive): reduced to 50–60km/h
- Residential roads in peri-urban areas (e.g. Quedjinup, Margaret River–Prevelly): reduced to 60km/h
- Town centres and residential streets: reduced to 40km/h where currently signed at 40–50km/h
Why It's Being Considered
Between 2019 and 2023, 136 people were killed or seriously injured on roads in Busselton, and 59 in Augusta Margaret River. Proponents argue that slower speeds could help reduce both the frequency and severity of crashes. Public submissions on the trial closed in November 2024, and local councils are expected to vote later this year.
Ongoing Road Safety Efforts in WA
WA is the only Australian state with a default 110km/h speed limit. Regional areas, where enforcement can be difficult, account for more than 60% of WA’s road fatalities.
Since 2020, the WA Government has invested over $1 billion through the Regional Road Safety Program, upgrading 10,000km of roads. Additional initiatives include:
- A $552 million proposal from the RAC and WALGA to upgrade 8,200km of country roads
- A $276 million commitment from the WA Nationals if elected
- A current $20 million allocation from the WA Labor Government to expand its safety program
- A $1.38 billion funding agreement between the WA Government and WALGA signed in 2023
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New Safety Cameras Now Active
WA has also deployed multi-offence safety cameras that detect speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt offences. These cameras are now live, with warnings currently being issued before enforcement begins.
Government Stance
While the WA Government supports the speed trial in principle and Main Roads WA has given preliminary backing, officials stress that any changes must be:
- Practical
- Enforceable
- Supported by evidence
Enforcement challenges in remote areas and roads with minimal traffic are also being considered. The Road Safety Council will review funding applications once the trial is approved, and a broader review of default speed limits is ongoing.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For the latest updates, visit your local council or state government websites.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
