Aboriginal People and Communities
Aboriginal people and their communities are over-represented in road crashes. Road crashes often result in lives lost or serious injury. Road trauma affects the wellbeing and socio-economic status of Aboriginal people, families, communities and culture.
Learn more about On the Right Track, an Aboriginal Road Safety and Driver Licensing Program designed to help Aboriginal people with driver licensing and road safety. It addresses the disadvantage they face in the driver licensing system and their over representation in road crashes. The program aims to improve road safety outcomes in remote areas. It focuses on promoting safe driving and being responsible passengers in remote areas.
On the Right Track also delivers a safe child restraints program, Keeping Tjitji Safe in Cars. This program provides practical hands-on training and advice on child restraints.
More information on Closing the Gap:
- Closing the Gap - www.closingthegap.gov.au
- South Australian information - Attorney-General's Department
- South Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation Network (SAACCON)
Factors that can affect road safety for Aboriginal people
Factors that may contribute to reduced road safety outcomes are:
- barriers to attaining and maintaining a driver’s licence
- limited availability of road safety education
- regional road condition and roadside hazards
- not using seatbelt or child restraints
- fewer transport options in remote areas
- driving older, less safe vehicles.
Transport disadvantage
Limited transportation options can make it harder to stay safe on the road. This increases risks of road trauma. People with limited transport options are more likely to make unsafe choices, whether they're driving, walking or riding as a passenger.
Aboriginal people are more likely to experience social exclusion because of limited or no transport options. The lack of access can lead to other problems, such as poor health, job security and education.
Socio-economic disadvantage
People experiencing socio-economic disadvantages often have cars that are not well-maintained and in poor condition. This can increase the risk of road trauma.
Those who can't access or afford vehicles with a high safety rating might also be at higher risk in a crash.