Victoria Police have issued an urgent warning to motorists following a disturbing spike in road fatalities, particularly in regional areas, during the first month of 2025. The state has recorded a significant increase in road trauma compared to previous years, prompting serious concerns about driver behavior and complacency.
Grim Statistics
According to Victoria Police, the first 37 days of 2025 saw 37 road deaths – a substantial increase compared to the 28 deaths recorded during the same period last year. This figure is also significantly higher than the five-year average of 27 fatalities for the same timeframe.
January alone accounted for 36 deaths, marking the highest number recorded for that month since the 44 fatalities in 2001. Of particular concern is the disproportionate impact on regional roads, where 23 deaths occurred, compared to 13 in January 2024.
| Statistic | 2025 (First 37 Days) | 2024 (Same Period) | 5-Year Average (Same Period) | Jan. 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Road Deaths | 37 | 28 | 27 | 36 |
| Regional Road Deaths | 23 | 13 | ||
| Motorcycle Rider Deaths | 10 | |||
Police Response
Road policing assistant commissioner Glenn Weir expressed grave concern over the alarming statistics. "Police are appalled at the terrible loss of life in January – the increase in regional fatalities is of particular concern to us," Weir stated in a media release.
Police analysis suggests that driver behavior and error are major contributing factors to the rise in fatalities. These include "excessive or inappropriate speed, unsafe overtaking, illegal u-turns, failing to stop or give way, fatigue and distraction." Weir emphasized that many accidents are occurring close to people's homes on familiar roads, indicating a significant issue with complacency.
Regional Hotspots
Certain regional areas have experienced a particularly sharp increase in road trauma. Western Victoria has recorded 14 lives lost so far this year, with fatalities occurring in areas such as Macarthur, Woolsthorpe, Coleraine, Princetown, She Oaks, Avoca, Pitfield, and Wendouree. Eastern Victoria has seen nine fatalities, including incidents in Creightons Creek, Goughs Bay, Clonbinane, Bowmans Forest, Bethanga, Ripplebrook, Jacob Creek, Mount Eccles, and Cobbannah.
Proximity to Home
A worrying trend identified by police is that 23 of the 37 fatal collisions occurred within 20km of the deceased road user's residence. Of those 23 people, 11 lived in regional areas, while the remaining 12 resided in metropolitan and suburban locations, highlighting the dangers of complacency even on familiar routes.
Motorcycle Fatalities
Police have also raised concerns over a significant rise in motorcycle fatalities, with 10 rider deaths recorded so far this year – seven of which occurred on regional roads. This underscores the need for increased awareness and safety measures to protect motorcyclists.
Road Conditions Not a Factor
Interestingly, police have stated that "road conditions are not contributing to the significant rise in road trauma this year." This emphasizes that the issue is primarily related to driver behavior and choices, rather than external factors.
Increased Enforcement and Awareness
To address the alarming trend, Victoria Police will be highly visible across the state, with a major focus on high-risk regional areas and motorcyclist safety. A statewide road policing operation will also commence in early March to coincide with the state’s Labour Day long weekend.
Assistant commissioner Weir urged all road users to take responsibility for their actions and prioritize safety. "All road users need to realize this is a problem that requires immediate attention, due care and commitment – it’s up to all of us to be more alert and prioritize safety when getting behind the wheel," he said.
The Bottom Line
The sharp rise in road deaths in Victoria, particularly in regional areas, is a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and vigilance on the roads. With police attributing the increase to driver behavior and complacency, it's clear that all road users must take immediate action to reverse this dangerous trend.
