Community knowledge vital for new Road Safety Strategy

Published on 15 September 2025

Motorists, pedestrians and cyclists can help shape safer roads, with Colac Otway Shire Council seeking community input on a new Road Safety Strategy.

The Road Safety Strategy will aim to enhance safety for all road users, including speed management, road design, road rule enforcement and education.

Colac Otway has a complex road network through different landscapes, climates and communities, and local input from people across the shire is crucial.

Community members can attend one of three Open House sessions across the shire to share their knowledge about blackspots, safety concerns, and their insights into what can support road safety in Colac Otway.

Open House session details:

BIRREGURRA: Friday 10 October, 10am to 12 noon at the Birregurra Hall.

COLAC: Friday 10 October, 4.30pm to 6.30pm at COPACC.

APOLLO BAY: Saturday 11 October, 10.30am to 1pm at the Apollo Bay Bowls Club.

People can also have input to the strategy online. For more information or to respond, visit www.colacotway.vic.gov.au/Community-Consultations

General Manager Infrastructure and Environment Doug McNeill said people could drop in at any time during the sessions.

“This strategy will direct our road safety work and investment for years to come, so now is the best time to let us know your priorities,” Mr McNeill said.

“If you want a road to be on our action plan, come along. There’s nothing like local knowledge to help identify issues and planning for the future,” he said.

“Locals know the roads, the towns and the issues better than anyone, so it’s vital that the community gets involved so we can make smart, targeted improvements,” Mr McNeill said.

Council has received a $50,000 grant from the Transport Accident Commission’s Local Government Grant Program to support development of the Road Safety Strategy.