MUARC Study Shows Significant Safety Gains

Research from the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) shows that implementing 40 km/h speed limits on certain Victorian roads significantly improves road safety. These changes particularly benefit pedestrians, reducing crashes involving them by 23.8 per cent. The study, part of MUARC’s Baseline Road Safety Research Program, analysed crash data and driver behaviour in areas where these speed limits were introduced, such as local roads, shopping strips, and zones with high pedestrian activity.

Professor Stuart Newstead, Director of MUARC, highlights the safety benefits of the 40 km/h zones. He remarked, “Expanding these lower speed zones in local streets and busy pedestrian areas could contribute significantly to reducing road trauma.” The research found a 9.7 per cent reduction in overall casualty crashes in these areas.

The study provides evidence to guide potential further expansion of 40 km/h zones across the state. Strategic implementation of lower speed limits aligns with Safe System principles, especially in urban areas with high foot traffic or vulnerable road users. The research estimates that expanding 40 km/h zones could prevent up to 131 crashes annually on local roads outside metropolitan Melbourne.

Potential for Expansion

To support this expansion, researchers emphasised the need for improved signage, education, and data collection. Further research is recommended to address discrepancies between self-reported compliance and actual driving patterns. The focus should be on improving infrastructure design and enforcement to promote adherence to speed limits.

The MUARC study surveyed drivers to understand their attitudes and compliance with lower speed limits. While many drivers support the limits, actual driving patterns reveal discrepancies that need addressing through targeted interventions. MUARC researchers underscored the importance of better road asset data and implementation tracking to refine future evaluations. Such data could help policymakers assess the effectiveness of 40 km/h zones and consider further expansions.

Professor Newstead added that these speed zones must be coupled with improved signage and public engagement to ensure effectiveness. This approach will help address unintentional speeding in low-speed zones.

For more details, the study titled ‘Baseline Research Program: Road Safety Evaluation of 40 Km/h Speed Zones In Victoria’ can be accessed, offering comprehensive data and insights into the impact of these speed limits.

Last updated: 4 April 2026, 7:54 pm