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26 November 2024

Seven new road safety projects in North Sydney will share in $1.7 million of funding as part of a $518.3 million joint initiative under the Australian Government’s Road Safety Program.

The program, supported by $218.6 million in federal and NSW contributions, aims to deliver comprehensive road safety upgrades across 2023-2024 to 2025-2026. The Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding $437.3 million for road safety treatments, bolstered by additional investments.

In North Sydney, the funding will enhance pedestrian safety, reduce crash risks, and mitigate the severity of accidents. Projects include upgrades to pedestrian infrastructure, such as wombat crossings near primary schools, and various intersection and barrier improvements.

Key projects funded under the program include:

  • $452,663 for a wombat crossing and continuous footpaths on Stanley Road and Ellesmere Avenue, improving connectivity to Hunters Hill Public School.
  • $333,625 to upgrade the safety barrier on Reynolds Street between Illiliwa Street and Bennelong Road in Cremorne.
  • $232,523 for a new pedestrian refuge on Fullers Road in Chatswood.

Additionally, 174 signalised intersections across NSW will be upgraded to enhance pedestrian safety. These upgrades will include improved pedestrian crossings, additional signals, and adjusted turn signal phasing to offer greater protection.

Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm emphasised the importance of the investment amid a concerning national road toll.

“Our over half a billion dollars’ worth of road safety funding for NSW is all part of our collective commitment to significantly reduce the number of road deaths and serious injuries on our roads,” Chisholm said.

Senator for NSW Tony Sheldon echoed these sentiments, highlighting community concerns. “Communities have told us they’re concerned about safety in these areas, so we’re taking action. We’re rolling out improvements to make sure everyone feels safe and to help reduce the risk of accidents,” Sheldon said.

He underlined the shared responsibility in improving road safety. “This joint funding from the Federal and NSW Governments shows real commitment to improving safety for everyone across the community.”