The Andrews Labor Government has launched a new campaign to help international visitors to Victoria drive with confidence and stay safe on our roads.
The Visiting Driver Road Safety Program was unveiled by Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren and will focus on visiting drivers travelling during the busy holiday period on unfamiliar roads in unfamiliar conditions.
More international visitors than ever are coming to Victoria and with more than a third of these visitors choosing a self-driving holiday, the need to boost road awareness and safety has never been more important.
The new initiative is being led by the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission, Victoria Police and VicRoads.
Modelled on the successful New Zealand international driver safety project, the initiative is being supported by the major vehicle rental companies which recognise the critical responsibility they have in ensuring their clients are aware of road safety risks.
The safety messages will be distributed to visiting drivers through various channels including bi-lingual videos, digital advertising, social media and promotional materials within hire vehicles, with key messages including:
- Pull over to take photos and enjoy the scenery;
- Journeys may take longer than you think. Allow extra time;
- Take a break every two hours;
- Drive within the limits and to the conditions;
- Get to know the road rules, signs and markings before you drive;
- Everyone must wear seatbelts;
- Remember to keep left; and
- Avoid distractions: do not use mobile phones or other devices while driving.
The Visiting Driver Road Safety Program complements a wider range of road safety initiatives already running across Victoria which benefit both international and domestic drivers.
The risk of extreme heat and bushfires during Victoria’s summer means it is also important that international visitors know which emergency broadcast channels and mobile apps to use for information updates.
Victoria welcomed 2.8 million international visitors who spent $7.6 billion in the 12 months to September and the Labor Government is ensuring that all visitors to our state have a safe and happy stay.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“The Visiting Driver Road Safety Program will help international drivers in Victoria have a safe trip while enjoying everything our great state has to offer.”
“Tourists mean business growth and more jobs for regional Victoria, and we’re determined to ensure that everyone is safe on our roads during the busy summer period.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020