Canberrans are urged to be extra vigilant while driving on ACT roads this upcoming National Road Safety Week with nine tragic deaths already recorded this year.
"I encourage everyone in our community to take the pledge to drive so others survive this National Road Safety Week," said Executive Branch Manager, Strategic Policy and Legislation, Kirra Cox. "Every decision behind the wheel matters, and together we can help prevent further loss of life on our roads."
National Road Safety Week (17-24 May) provides an opportunity for the community to recommit to safer driving. The ACT Government joins other state and territory jurisdictions in supporting the week and encouraging drivers to publicly commit to safer driving choices.
Every year more than 1,300 people are killed and another 40,000 seriously injured on Australian roads.
As part of National Road Safety Week 2026, the ACT Government will highlight two key initiatives, including the release of the ACT Road Safety Framework 2026-2031. The new framework replaces previous road safety strategies and action plans and sets out a clear, long-term and coordinated approach to reducing serious injuries and fatalities on ACT roads, aligned with national priorities and local needs.
"Through the ACT Road Safety Framework 2026-2031, we are reinforcing our commitment to Vision Zero – no deaths or serious injuries on ACT roads by 2050," said Kirra Cox. "This framework sets out how we will continue to work across government and with the community to make our roads safer for everyone."
Communication activities in the lead up to and during the week will also highlight initiatives that reinforce the importance of safe driving choices. Canberrans are encouraged to engage with the broadcast of the documentary 'Scar Tissue', which will air on 16 May, ahead of National Road Safety Week. The documentary tells the stories of five local Canberrans who are living with the lasting and often hidden impacts of road trauma, not just on themselves but on their families and communities. The project delivers a powerful message to young road users that while anyone can choose to take a risk, no one can choose the consequences.
"The stories shared through initiatives like 'Scar Tissue' remind us that road trauma leaves lifelong scars," Kirra said. "Everyone has a role to play in preventing these tragedies."
The ACT Government remains committed to ongoing education, awareness and action to improve road safety outcomes. National Road Safety Week is an opportunity for all Canberrans to recommit to safer driving and help to ensure everyone gets home safely.
