There’s a controversial 90-second rule change: What does it mean for you?

If you’ve ever driven through the picturesque Margaret River region in Western Australia, you’ll know it’s a place where the scenery is as breathtaking as the local wines. 

But for the next three years, it’s not just the rolling vineyards and surf beaches that will be catching drivers’ attention, it’s the new speed limit signs popping up on more than 550 local roads. 

A bold new road safety trial, known as the Safer Speeds program, is underway, and it’s already dividing opinion among locals, tourists, and road safety experts alike. 

The change? Most affected roads will see their speed limits drop by 10km/h, a move that, on average, will add just 90 seconds to your journey. But as with many things in life, it’s not the seconds that matter, it’s the principle.

Why the change, and why now?

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River is rolling out this trial in response to a worrying trend: a 10.4 per cent increase in road fatalities across Western Australia in the past year alone, according to the National Road Safety Strategy. 

Speed remains the leading cause of serious crashes and fatalities on our roads, and local leaders are determined to do something about it.

Shire President Julia Meldrum explained, ‘The reason we’re involved in this trial is because speed is one contributor to road crashes and serious injury, so it’s one way of saving lives.’ 

She points out that more than half the local community supported the trial, a stark contrast to the neighbouring City of Busselton, which pulled out after a less enthusiastic response.

What exactly is changing?

• Around 550 local roads in the Margaret River region will have new speed limits, mostly reduced by 10km/h.
• There’s no blanket speed change; each road is being assessed individually.
• The trial will run for three years, with the first new signs already installed in Gracetown.
• The average increase in travel time? Just 90 seconds per trip.

The aim is simple: to reduce the number and severity of crashes, and ultimately, to save lives.

The backlash: ‘An absolute joke’ or common sense?

Not everyone is on board. Social media has lit up with frustrated drivers calling the trial ‘an absolute joke’ and ‘needless’. 

Some fear that lower speed limits will lead to more driver impatience, risky overtaking, and longer commutes, especially for locals who rely on these roads daily.

One online commenter summed up the mood: ‘Absolutely needless and just more infuriating and impatience will build for road users.’ 

Many have praised the City of Busselton for opting out, arguing that the inconvenience outweighs the potential benefits.

But is 90 seconds really such a big deal?

President Meldrum is urging drivers to keep things in perspective: ‘Is 90 seconds really a long time?

Not really. It’s insignificant when you consider there could be lives saved and serious injury prevented.’

The evidence: Do lower speed limits really save lives?

This isn’t the first time speed reduction has been used as a road safety tool. Decades of research, both in Australia and overseas, show that even small reductions in speed can have a big impact on crash rates and severity. 

According to the World Health Organisation, a 5 per cent cut in average speed can result in a 30 per cent reduction in fatal crashes.

In fact, many European countries have adopted lower speed limits in residential and high-risk areas, with positive results. Closer to home, similar trials in Victoria and New South Wales have led to fewer crashes and injuries.

Why do small speed changes matter so much?

It’s all about physics. The faster you’re going, the less time you have to react, and the more forceful any collision will be. Even a 10km/h reduction can mean the difference between a near-miss and a tragedy, especially on winding country roads or in areas with lots of wildlife.

What about the impact on locals and tourism?

Margaret River is a magnet for tourists, and some business owners worry that slower travel times could put visitors off. However, others argue that safer roads are good for everyone and that a slightly slower pace might even encourage people to stop and enjoy the region’s attractions.

For locals, the change may take some getting used to, but the hope is that the benefits will outweigh the inconvenience. After all, as Meldrum says, ‘We’re talking about saving lives.’

What happens next?

The Safer Speeds trial will be closely monitored over the next three years, with regular reviews and community feedback. If the data shows a significant drop in crashes and fatalities, it could pave the way for similar changes in other parts of Australia.

What can you do?

Stay informed: Check local council websites and road signage for updates on speed limits in your area.

Be patient: Remember, the extra 90 seconds could save a life, maybe even yours or someone you love.

Have your say: Councils are keen to hear from residents and road users. If you have feedback, don’t hesitate to share it.

Have you driven on these roads? Do you think the 90-second rule is a smart move, or an unnecessary hassle? Have you noticed any changes in driver behaviour or road safety in your area? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Let’s keep the conversation going because when it comes to road safety, every second (and every opinion) counts.

Also read: The surprising road rule catching drivers off guard—and how to avoid a $6,000 fine