Media Release | 2 April 2026
Hon. Julie Freeman MLC
Shadow Minister for Road Safety
Shadow Minister for Road Safety Hon Julie Freeman MLC says Western Australia’s road toll remains unacceptably high, with fatalities continuing to track above the five-year average.
“Despite repeated warnings and growing concern in the community, the road toll in Western Australia continues to grow” Ms Freeman said.
“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy, and the fact we remain above the five-year average shows the Cook Labor Government is failing to deliver the level of action required and the level of action it’s promised.”
Ms Freeman said while enforcement measures continue to expand, serious questions remain about how revenue raised from motorists is being used.
“The Government has rolled out AI-enabled speed cameras and enforcement tools, generating significant revenue, but where is that money going?” she said.
The Road Trauma Trust Account (RTTA) was established to ensure funds raised from traffic fines are reinvested into programs and infrastructure that reduce road trauma.
“The RTTA is expected to receive somewhere between $50 million and $100 million this year from the new AI safety camera program,” Ms Freeman said.
“Yet there is no confidence this money will be spent on proven road safety strategies that actually save lives.”
Ms Freeman said urgent investment is needed in proven road safety treatments, particularly on high risk regional roads where many families will be travelling during the Easter break.
“We know what works. Road improvements, better infrastructure, and targeted interventions, but too many of these projects are yet to be delivered.”
Ms Freeman said the Easter long weekend serves as a timely reminder for all drivers to take extra care on the roads.
“We know the Easter period is consistently one of the most dangerous times on Western Australian roads,” she said.
“I urge everyone to slow down, avoid distractions, never drive under the influence, and make sure you are well-rested before getting behind the wheel.”
ENDS
