APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR BLACK SPOT FUNDING PROGRAM

Each year Australians travel, on average, 12,100 kilometres in a passenger vehicle^[1].

Australian road users know their local roads like better than anyone, and so the Australian Government is encouraging individuals to nominate a road for funding under the Black Spot Program. 

The Australian Government allocates $110 million per year to the Black Spot Program which funds safety measures such as traffic signals and roundabouts at locations where serious crashes are known to have occurred, or are at risk of occurring.

Black Spot projects make an important contribution towards reducing serious injuries and deaths on Australia’s roads, and build on previous road safety investments.

Previous local projects that have received funding through the Black Spot Program include 

·    The intersection of Dyson Drive and Coltman Plaza in Lucas: $50,000 to upgrade traffic lights.

·    ·    The intersection of Eureka Street and Fussell Street, Ballarat East: $354,000 to upgrade the existing roundabout with additional safety features.

·        ·    The intersection of Ripon Street South and Urquhart Street: $464,000 for the construction of a roundabout.

    ·     ·   The intersection of Eureka Street and Otway Street South: $160,000 for safety upgrades for pedestrians, pram users and bicycles.

Nominations for Black Spot locations are invited from state and territory governments, local governments, community groups and associations as well as individuals.

Nominations are considered annually by Black Spot Consultative Panels in each jurisdiction, who recommend projects for approval to the relevant federal Minister. 

More information and how to apply can be found here: https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local-initiatives/black-spot-program/nominate.aspx

Quotes attributable to Member for Ballarat Catherine King

“The Black Spot Program makes it possible for local communities to suggest intersections or sections of road that they believe should be considered for a safety upgrade.

“Applying for Black Spot funding is as simple as filling in the online two page form and submitting it to your local state or territory Consultative Panel for consideration.

“Black Spot funding is only available to projects submitted through the nomination process – so I’d encourage residents to take the time to make a submission about roads that concern them.”