The Department of Transport and Main Roads is soon to start detailed consultation into how the safety of first responders to traffic events can be better protected from passing motorists.
The policy review is expected to be completed later this year.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the Government would work closely with first responders and peak industry bodies like RACQ.
“Police officers, paramedics, fire and emergency services crews, and traffic response units are all there for us when traffic crashes and other incidents occur,” Mr Bailey said.
“Their workplace is often by the side of the road, and it is critical they and the people they help are protected.”
He said the consultation process would inform possible new or amended road rules for Government consideration, along with possible improvements to driver education, safety campaigns and traffic management solutions to help keep first responders safe.
“We have worked closely with emergency services and RACQ to educate drivers on the importance of moving over, slowing down and giving responders the space to do their work safely — and we’ll work with them closely as part of this consultation process,” Mr Bailey said.
He urged all motorists to continue to obey signs at roadworks and to reduce their speed and move over to improve the safety of first responders attending to a crash or breakdown.
