The funding will be used to modify the splitter island and improve street lighting at Mahoneys Road and Jeffrey Street. 

Ms Vamvakinou said that the project was assessed and recommended by a panel of independent road safety experts, including the RACV, Victorian Transport Association, Victoria Police, Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association, state and local government.

 “These projects are crucial when you consider the contribution that the Black Spot program has made to saving lives,” Ms Vamvakinou said. 

“In its first three years, the program prevented at least 32 fatalities and more than 1,500 serious injuries around Australia.” 

 “It returns around $14 for every $1 invested by reducing the number and costs of crashes. 

“The Rudd Labor Government has more than doubled Black Spots funding as part of our National Building and Economic Stimulus Strategy.  This will support local jobs and safer roads for our community,” Ms Vamvakinou said. 

Nationally, the funding for the Black Spots Program for 2008/09 has been almost tripled from $50 million to $144.7 million.

 Anyone can suggest a location or a section of road for Black Sport funding using a nomination form that can be downloaded from www.nationbuildingprogram.gov.au  

Contact:  Nina Livorness on 9309 3655