The call for enhanced pedestrian safety in Victoria is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the growing number of road fatalities. With 33 pedestrians losing their lives in 2025, a year that saw a significant increase from the five-year average of 22, the situation demands immediate attention and action. Victoria Walks, a pedestrian advocacy group, is at the forefront of this movement, urging both political parties to invest in a comprehensive plan to improve pedestrian infrastructure.
The proposed investment of $150 million over four years is a substantial step towards creating safer walking conditions. By installing or upgrading over 1,000 crossings, the initiative aims to address the critical issue of infrastructure gaps that currently deter people from walking. Victoria Walks' Chief Executive, Sarah Pilgrim, emphasizes that safe and well-maintained footpaths are essential to encouraging active transportation and promoting a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
The statistics are alarming, with a 28.9% decrease in pedestrian deaths over the past 25 years, yet a slight increase in Victoria between 2020 and 2024. This paradox highlights the need for targeted interventions to ensure the safety of pedestrians. Maroondah Council's proactive approach to reviewing its pedestrian network, including 645 kilometers of footpaths, is a positive step. The council's focus on accessibility and safety, especially for individuals with disabilities and those using prams, demonstrates a commitment to inclusive and secure walking environments.
However, the challenges are not limited to infrastructure alone. The experience of Cate Hall, an advocate for pedestrian safety on Murray Road in Coburg, Melbourne, underscores the emotional and psychological impact of feeling unsafe while walking. The road, a busy stretch between new residential and commercial developments, has been described as 'hostile' by the community. The reduction in speed limits during school drop-off and pick-up times is a welcome step, but the community's desire for a more radical transformation, such as reducing the road to one lane each way, highlights the complexity of the issue.
The state opposition's criticism of the Labor government's financial mismanagement and neglect of pedestrian infrastructure is a contentious point. The government, on the other hand, boasts significant investments in road safety improvements, including the installation of over 850 pedestrian crossings. The spokesperson's commitment to monitoring the road network and collaborating with local councils and communities is a positive sign of proactive governance.
In conclusion, the call for improved pedestrian safety in Victoria is a call for a holistic approach that combines infrastructure development, community engagement, and policy reform. By addressing the physical and emotional barriers to walking, the state can create a safer, more inclusive, and healthier environment for its residents. The challenge lies in translating these calls into tangible actions, ensuring that the voices of pedestrians are heard and their safety is prioritized.
