Greater Shepparton City Council has endorsed a major new strategy aimed at reducing road trauma and improving travel safety across the municipality.
The Mobility and Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan 2025-29, adopted at the June council meeting, outlines a detailed plan to halve fatalities and serious injuries on local roads by 2030 — with a long-term vision of reaching zero.
The strategy aligns with the Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2021-30 and centres on four key pillars: Safe People, Safe Speeds, Safe Roads and Safe Vehicles.
Mayor Shane Sali said the final strategy was shaped significantly by local voices.
“Community feedback played a central role in shaping this strategy. We’ve listened closely and made sure the final plan reflects what matters most — safer intersections, better road surfaces, clearer pedestrian connections and more transparent progress reporting,” Cr Sali said.
More than 290 residents contributed through surveys and workshops, raising concerns about deteriorating road conditions, unsafe intersections and poor pedestrian accessibility.
In response, the strategy now includes a greater emphasis on pothole repairs, kerb ramp upgrades, improved pedestrian connectivity and intersection safety at high-risk locations.
It also clarifies the division of responsibility between the council and the state government when it comes to different road types.
Cr Sam Spinks described the plan as “ambitious but essential”, noting that anything less than a goal of zero fatalities was “unacceptable.” She commended the strategy’s holistic approach to road safety, while also calling for a future strategy focused more specifically on cyclists and pedestrians.
Cr Anthony Brophy highlighted the need for cultural change among drivers, particularly post-COVID, and raised the issue of e-scooter safety, suggesting that emerging transport trends should be considered in future planning.
The strategy is fully funded by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) through its Local Government Grant Program, and any future actions will be considered during the council’s annual budget process.
To read the full Mobility and Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan 2025-29, visit greatershepparton.com.au
Council can be contacted on 5832 9700 or by email at council@shepparton.vic.gov.au