- Cook Government has partnered with WA seniors peak body Advocare to improve road safety outcomes for older drivers
- Partnership delivers on a commitment of the Driving Change Road SafetyStrategyfor Western Australia 2020-2030 to improve road safety for vulnerable road users
- Launched to coincide with WA Seniors Week, November 10 to 17
- Part of Cook Government's focus on building safe and inclusive communities
The Cook Government's commitment to improve road safety for those most impacted by road trauma through a new partnership with Western Australia's seniors peak body Advocare.
Over the next three years, Advocare will work with older Western Australians to better understand the factors that shape their driving experience.
Through a combination of consultation and research, Advocare will deepen its understanding of what matters most to older adults, to ensure safety on the road.
This will inform the development of responses to support decision making, promote independence, and reflect the lifelong skills and contributions of older drivers.
The final phase will pilot and evaluate new approaches across metropolitan and regional communities grounded in real-life experiences and responsive to the diversity of older people's lives.
The $355,000 partnership is funded under the Everyday Safer road safety program - a commitment of the Driving Change Road SafetyStrategyfor Western Australia 2020-2030 to encourage positive road safety behaviours and attitudes across the ages and stages of road users most impacted by road trauma in WA.
Launched in June, the year 7 and 8 incursion program Road Smart Kickstart was the first initiative to be delivered under the program, followed by a new partnership in August with Playgroup WA to reach families with children aged 0 to 4.
More information can be found at everydaysafer.wa.gov.au
As stated by Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby:
"As we grow older, our bodies may become more vulnerable to serious injury, making road safety even more important.
"While older adults represent a smaller group of drivers, those aged 80 and over face a disproportionately high risk of being seriously injured or killed in road incidents.
"This highlights the need for compassionate, tailored support that honours independence and prioritises wellbeing.
"That's why the Cook Government has partnered with WA's leading ageing support service to better understand and respond to the unique challenges older Western Australians face on our roads to keep our community safe.
"Together, we're working to ensure older people can remain mobile and independent, while feeling safe and supported getting around their communities, whether that be as drivers, pedestrians, or users of mobility devices."
As stated by Aged Care and Seniors Minister Simone McGurk:
"As a free, not-for-profit and WA-based advocacy service, Advocare plays a vital role inempowering older Western Australiansto make informed decisions about their care and wellbeing.
"Independence is deeply tied to wellbeing in later life, and older Western Australians deserve to feel safe and confident on our roads.
"Together, we're driving change that helps seniors stay active, connected, and safe."
