Thursday, 30 May 2024

 Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (14:56): (675) My question is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and I ask: what can be done to improve pedestrian safety at the intersection of Sydney Road, Boundary Road and Queens Parade in Fawkner? Local resident Lisa Arnold is recovering at home after being in hospital because she was injured while crossing the intersection of Sydney Road and Boundary Road some weeks ago. Victorian road crash data has identified that the intersection has had six pedestrian crashes in the last five years. Lisa and other local residents have suggested red arrows for drivers turning both left and right during pedestrian crossing times, increased lighting throughout the intersection and pedestrian crossing warning signals to help increase safety. Being able to safely cross the road is fundamental to the livability of our suburbs and the health and wellbeing of our residents. I am thankful for the work the Minister for Roads and Road Safety has done in this regard, and I am really pleased that we have a Minister for Public and Active Transport now. I am also thankful for the work of Walk On Merri-bek convener Andrea Bunting in her advocacy for pedestrian safety, and I look forward to the minister’s response.