The Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP) has revealed a startling truth: our major highways are in dire need of improvement. The Sturt Highway, a vital artery connecting Sydney to Adelaide, has been given the lowest possible safety rating, a stark reminder of the risks faced by drivers every day. This is not an isolated incident; several other major highways have also been rated poorly, with the Goyder, Stott, and Mallee highways joining the Sturt in receiving a one-star rating. These findings are particularly concerning given the high number of deaths and serious injuries on South Australian roads in the first half of 2026. The AusRAP safety rating, led by Austroads, identifies roads with the highest risks of death and serious injury, and where upgrades will have the greatest life-saving impact. Ratings consider factors like travel speeds, traffic volume, road surface condition, barriers, and roadside hazards. The Sturt Highway, running through South Australia's Riverland, has been described as 'dangerous' by third-generation truck driver Gavin Knight, who has experienced near misses and shaken conditions due to inadequate overtaking lanes. The Goyder Highway's edges also need improvement. The news is not surprising to Mr. Knight, who has seen the road's condition deteriorate over three decades. The clock is ticking on South Australia's safety target, with only 55% of travel occurring on three-star or better roads, compared to the national target of 80% by 2030. The RAA's Charles Mountain emphasizes that a one-star rating doesn't mean the road is inherently unsafe, but it is not as safe as other roads. Minor works may be needed to bring these roads up to a safer standard. The South Australian government is updating its Regional Network Safety Plan with AusRAP data, prioritizing improvements based on traffic volume, safety, and pavement condition. The federal government has committed $8.1 billion to road and rail projects in SA, including the Sturt Highway upgrade. However, the question remains: are these commitments enough? The Murraylands and Riverland Local Government Association's Ella Winnall suggests that councils collectively advocate for road funding, particularly for high-productivity freight routes through the Murray-Darling Basin. The federal government's investment in these routes could address socio-economic harm caused by voluntary buybacks. In my opinion, the AusRAP ratings serve as a wake-up call for governments and road authorities. While the federal government's commitment is a step in the right direction, more needs to be done to ensure the safety and efficiency of our highways. The ratings highlight the urgent need for action, and it is imperative that governments and councils work together to prioritize road improvements and advocate for the necessary funding. The safety of our roads is a shared responsibility, and it is time for a comprehensive and coordinated effort to address this critical issue.
