Tasmanians are being urged to exercise caution on our roads and be part of the road safety solution in 2025.
Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, said road safety was everyone's responsibility this year and always.
"I'd like to wish all Tasmanians a Happy New Year and remind everyone that, at this time of the year, we have an opportunity to reset our priorities, and place road safety at the front of our minds.
"Whether you're driving, cycling, riding or walking, I urge everyone to commit to being patient when on the roads and prioritise safe and responsible behaviour, both behind the wheel and as you travel.
"In 2024, 32 lives were lost, and 300 people were seriously injured on Tasmanian roads. In comparison, 2023 recorded 36 fatalities and 304 serious injuries.
"While road deaths were slightly down from 2023, there are still 32 families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones from 2024.
"Of the 300 people seriously injured on our roads in 2024, there are some who face a long road to recovery and whose lives will never be the same.
"Families are forever affected by the tragedy of road trauma. We need to understand that while road trauma is preventable, we all need to play a part," Minister Abetz said.
Mr Abetz said the Tasmanian Government remained committed to road safety and reducing trauma on our roads.
"Over the last five years and as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we have invested more than $75 million into road safety, including a $50 million road safety infrastructure program.
"We will soon announce additional funding and an extension to the existing Action Plan that guides the Towards Zero Tasmanian Road Strategy.
"Our roads are becoming safer, as are many vehicles, but we need to remember that road safety is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from all sectors of our community – from governments to individual users."
"This New Year, let's all take the pledge to drive and travel with care to make our roads safer for everyone," Minister Abetz said.
