NRMA pushes for more investment in road safety

November 2011

The leading motoring body in New South Wales has asked for more fine revenue to be spent on road improvements and safety campaigns.

NRMA president Wendy Machin presented a petition to state parliament last week (November 10) calling for the government to redirect the money raised from motorists.

More than 13,500 NSW car owners signed the document, agreeing that a review of the current use of road revenue was needed.

Income generated by speeding and traffic fines is expected to exceed $300 million this year, with speed cameras contributing significantly.

"The most effective way to end the debate around the validity of speed cameras in NSW is to redirect all fines back into keeping people safe on our roads," Ms Machin said.

According to Ms Machin, the road toll could be lowered by splitting the money between the upgrading of NSW roads, road safety education and recruiting highway patrol officers - an idea the state's Police Association agrees with.

"The best way to stop speeding drivers is through a more visible presence of highway patrol officers on our roads and government policy needs to reflect that," Police Association of NSW president Scott Weber said.

The proposal is due to be debated in parliament early next year.