Top 7 themes from this year's conference

As I usually do, I’ve jotted down my top 7 take-aways from last week’s Australasian Road Safety Conference for those that couldn’t make it.

With so much going on I couldn’t get to everything, but here are some takeaways from me:

1.?Comprehensive Focus on All Road Users: A Shift in Road Safety Priorities Over the Years

When I first attended this conference some 20+ years ago, the agenda was primarily centred around car-focused topics. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift towards giving due attention to all road users. This year's conference showcased a diverse range of sessions dedicated to various road user groups, highlighting the evolving landscape of road safety.

Cyclist safety took the spotlight with thought-provoking presentations by experts like Ben Beck , David Y. , Rachel Carlisle , Prasannah Prabhakharan and many others. Discussions on road worker safety, led by Jerome Carslake and Ashim Debnath , offered valuable insights into this critical aspect of road safety. The session on e-scooters featured an impressive lineup of Andrew Kirk, Narelle Haworth , Joel Tucker , Tanya Smyth , Amy Schramm , and Maddison Taylor. Pedestrian safety also received significant attention, with presentations by Geoffrey Browne , who explored the concept of "Zebra Crossing at T-intersections" for improved walkability, and Raphael Grzebieta AM , who examined the feasibility of implementing a default 40km/h speed limit in urban areas.

Motorcycle safety was another key area covered by experts such as Shane Turner, PhD , Tana Tan (PhD) , Christopher Hurren , and Lloyd Toffolon , which will be discussed further in a subsequent point.

2.?Local Government's Vital Role in Road Safety: A Growing Wave of Leadership

Local governments are poised to become a driving force in road safety like never before. As the closest interface to the community, they wield immense influence not only in accomplishing road safety objectives but also in paving the way for others to do the same.

At the conference, Jeanine Foster and Junine Stewart once again captivated the audience with their unapologetic ambition for Safe System outcomes through the collaborative efforts of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Local Government Authorities (LGAs), supported by their dedicated Area Program Managers. Their partnership exemplifies the potential for local governments to lead the charge in making our roads safer.

Fiona Frost offered a glimpse into the impressive track record of success achieved at the local government level in New South Wales, illustrating the tangible impact of community-focused road safety initiatives.

Christopher Davis , representing Vision Zero Australia / Safe System Solutions Pty Ltd , showcased the remarkable ability of local governments to stretch their budgets while still creating infrastructure that aligns with the Safe System principles. He presented a compelling case study of a Low-Cost Implant Roundabout, emphasising how resourcefulness can yield remarkable results.

Max Bushell introduced the audience to the WA Road Safety Rating Tool for Local Governments, a valuable tool designed to aid LGAs in assessing and making informed decisions regarding road safety investments. This innovative approach promises to empower local governments across Australia to further enhance road safety within their communities.

The conference emphasised the growing momentum of local governments stepping up as key players in the road safety arena, showcasing their commitment to fostering safer road networks for all.

3.?Innovation Across the Spectrum: Embracing Proven Methods in a Changing Landscape

There was much excitement as attendees were introduced to a myriad of innovative solutions spanning technology, infrastructure, vehicles, and systems. While these cutting-edge developments offered a glimpse into the future of road safety, one resounding message echoed throughout the event: the value of proven methods remains undiminished.

Paul Durdin effectively underscored the significance of safety performance indicators, a well-established approach. However, he also showcased innovative ways to collect and present data, demonstrating the adaptability of established techniques in the modern landscape.

Hafez Alavi delighted researchers by presenting a framework for evaluating the key functions and attributes of effective road safety research programs. This initiative not only highlighted the importance of research but also emphasised the need for innovative thinking in this critical field.

Brett Williams , representing City of Onkaparinga at the local government level, emphasised that innovation continues to play a pivotal role, even if similar strategies have been implemented elsewhere. His insights reinforced the idea that innovation remains an ongoing process, with room for customisation to address local needs and challenges.

During the 3M Award Winners Presentation, Adam Gardiner succinctly summarised a common challenge: the stifling effect of red tape on innovation. He urged everyone to streamline processes to achieve more efficient and effective outcomes for our communities, emphasising the importance of embracing both proven methods and innovative thinking to drive road safety forward.

4.?Speed Management: The Linchpin of Road Safety

During the conference, Glen Koorey masterfully highlighted the critical role of speed management in the realm of road safety. He adeptly highlighted not only its importance but also the challenges we confront, particularly when it comes to setting and adhering to speed limits. Speed management, a well-recognised principle within our industry, is undeniably the linchpin for achieving a high level of Safe System alignment.

The presentations at the conference showcased a diverse array of strategies aimed at achieving safer speeds on our roads. While lower speed limits were a recurring theme, Laura Procter and Andrew Eckersley 's presentation on Pacemaker Lighting introduced an intriguing perspective by focusing on consistent vehicle speeds as a means of enhancing safety.

Within the context of tunnels, David Beck delved into the impact of Variable Message Signs, shedding light on their potential role in speed management. Additionally, I had the privilege of presenting on the merits of raised safety platforms and raised intersections, emphasising that we possess the knowledge to pinpoint high-risk locations on our road networks. This knowledge enables us to strategically reduce travel speeds, especially at these critical locations, and raised intersections stand out as an effective approach in this regard.

In summary, speed management emerged as a central theme at the conference, reaffirming its paramount importance in the pursuit of road safety. The diverse range of strategies presented underscored the industry's commitment to ensuring that our roads are safer for all.

5.???Maximising the Safe System's Potential: Navigating the Road to Effective Implementation

As the conference commenced, there was a sense of anticipation regarding the Safe System approach. Some may have wondered if alternative road safety strategies would be proposed. While discussions on optimising the system were indeed part of the discourse, the overarching theme of the conference affirmed the Safe System's pivotal role as the operational framework for achieving road safety objectives. The challenge at hand, it became evident, was the realisation of its full potential through effective implementation.

Professor Jan Theeuwes , a distinguished figure in Cognitive Psychology from VU Amsterdam, set the tone by reminding the audience of how current road designs contribute to accidents. He emphasised the importance of self-explanatory road designs to mitigate crash risks. Throughout the conference, there were consistent reminders of the imperative to create forgiving roads and road infrastructure that prioritise safety.

Martin Small (who also became an ACRS Fellow at this conference), in an engaging interactive session (which regrettably I missed due to concurrent presentations), delved into the concept of a "systems-thinking approach to road safety: policy position statement." This discussion reinforced the intricate web of factors that constitute the road safety system, highlighting its multifaceted nature.

The resounding message from the conference was clear: The Safe System is a proven and effective approach. However, the key challenge lies in the relentless pursuit of its implementation, ensuring that it reaches its full potential in safeguarding lives on our roads.

6.?Motorcycle Safety: A Call for Urgent Action

While the conference featured valuable insights into motorcycle safety, including Tana Tan (PhD) 's examination of the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS), Christopher Hurren 's focus on protective clothing, Lloyd Toffolon 's exploration of the Motorcycle Crash Card, and the presentation of Wendy Taylor 's work on Victoria's Motorcycle Safety Forum, it became further apparent that the realm of motorcycle safety demands further attention and action in both Australia and New Zealand.

The surge in motorcycle ridership is a growing trend, yet interventions to enhance motorcycle safety seem to lag behind, often lacking the necessary efficacy. It's clear that there is an urgent need for more comprehensive and swift measures to address this pressing issue.

We must encourage those working on motorcycle safety initiatives to expedite their efforts and present their findings promptly. The safety of motorcycle riders should remain a paramount concern, and it's imperative that we take decisive steps to ensure their well-being on our roads.

7.??Building Capacity and Fostering Expertise: A Crucial Imperative

The conference resonated with my passion for advancing capabilities and capacities in the field of road safety. Witnessing the remarkable work presented at the event further fuelled this. The pressing need is evident: we require a multitude of individuals actively translating the research shared into concrete actions. We need practitioners well-versed in the fundamentals of the Safe System, equipped to apply this knowledge effectively within their local networks. We need decision-makers who comprehend the significance of the world-class research showcased at the conference and who base their policies on these insights.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has set a commendable example in this regard over recent years. They have recognised that cultivating an army of Safe System practitioners and advocates demands unwavering commitment and substantial investment. The presentations by Jeanine Foster and Junine Stewart exemplified their dedication, and Waka Kotahi's expansive initiatives spanning various aspects of capability and capacity building are reshaping the industry culture in New Zealand, serving as a model for emulation.

Kathy Doukouris , our Training Manager at Safe System Solutions, was at the conference to ensure that our programs remain at the forefront of current thinking, enabling the research to translate into real-world impact.

Ann Williamson detailed the global nature of the challenge, emphasising the importance of building skills and knowledge in Safe System fundamentals and their practical application, transcending the borders of Australia and New Zealand.

Dave Cliff presented compelling case studies within the realm of road policing, highlighting the potential for building capacity within this crucial domain.

Indeed, this imperative to build capacity and foster expertise is one of the foremost reasons for active participation in the conference. It is an opportunity to acquire the latest knowledge, connect with peers to stay abreast of developments in diverse jurisdictions, and ensure that our training programs equip future generations of road safety professionals with the best strategies to safeguard our communities from the scourge of trauma.