Victorian police will ramp up speed enforcement as new figures show excessive speed has played a role in more than 30 road deaths across the state so far this year.
The latest statistics reveal 31 lives have been lost due to speed-related crashes in 2025 — an increase from 23 during the same period last year. Overall, Victoria has recorded 284 road fatalities this year, with speed contributing to at least 45 of those deaths.
The state wide crackdown coincides with National Road Safety Week, a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the devastating impact of road trauma and the importance of safe driving. On Monday 12 May, the focus is on speed — the most common form of driver non-compliance in Australia.
Highway Patrol officers, Public Order Response Teams, and general duties police will be deployed across Victoria, using handheld laser devices and in-car radar systems to detect speeding drivers. Authorities say the operation is both a deterrent and enforcement strategy to tackle dangerous driving habits.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said drivers can expect to be checked ‘anywhere, anytime,’ especially during high-risk periods.
“Every year we see the devastating impacts of speeding — not only for those who lose their lives, but for the families, friends, and first responders left behind,” he said.
“It’s not worth risking your life just to arrive somewhere a few minutes faster.”
With wet weather and reduced visibility expected in the coming months, police are urging all drivers to slow down. Research shows that reducing speed by just 5km/h can lower crash risk by up to 15 per cent.
National Road Safety Week, founded by road safety advocate Peter Frazer after the tragic death of his 23-year-old daughter in 2012, runs from Sunday 11 May to Sunday 18 May.
The campaign encourages Australians to “pledge to drive so others survive.”
For more information, visit roadsafetyweek.com.au.
