Council calls on community to make the Road Safety Pledge

National Road Safety Week is an annual initiative led by the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group in partnership with road safety organisations and the Australian Government. The week raises awareness about road trauma and encourages safer behaviour on and around roads.

Nationally, around 1,200 people lose their lives and more than 40,000 people are seriously injured on Australian roads each year. Traffic injuries also remain one of the leading causes of death for children and young people across the country.

Throughout the week, daily themes will focus on improving road safety for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, emergency service personnel and roadside workers.

To mark National Road Safety Week, Council assets across Shepparton and Mooroopna will be illuminated in yellow throughout the week in memory and support of the people impacted by road trauma.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, encouraged the community to get involved and commit to safer driving behaviours.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and even small decisions behind the wheel can make a significant difference. By making the pledge, people are committing to driving without distraction, avoiding speeding and never driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or while fatigued,” he said.

“We continue to see the devastating impact road trauma can have on families and communities. National Road Safety Week is an important reminder for all of us to slow down, stay alert and look out for one another on our roads.

“I also encourage parents and carers to get involved in National Walk Safely to School Day and help children build safe and healthy travel habits.”

As part of the week, National Walk Safely to School Day will take place on Friday 22 May 2026. The initiative encourages primary school-aged children to walk safely to school while promoting positive pedestrian behaviour, health and wellbeing, public transport and environmental awareness.

National Road Safety Week 2026 themes

Date	Theme
Sunday 17 May	Remember the 1300.
Monday 18 May	Make the pledge.
Tuesday 19 May	Be mindful of young people on our roads.
Wednesday 20 May	Travel the road to kindness.
Thursday 21 May	Refresh your road rules knowledge.
Friday 22 May	National Walk Safely to School Day. Plan your journey.
Saturday 23 May	Take care and be aware on regional roads.
Sunday 24 May	Share the street.