The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, is calling for immediate action to install traffic lights at the Deakin Avenue and Sixteenth Street intersection following yet another crash at the site.
“This intersection has a long and concerning history of accidents, including two fatalities and multiple serious injuries since 2009,” Ms Benham said. “With traffic increasing due to the growth of Mildura South and the busy Mildura Sporting Precinct, the risks are only getting worse. Action is needed now.”
Despite a commitment from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to upgrade the intersection by early 2025, there has been no visible progress.
“The safety record at the Deakin Avenue and Sixteenth Street intersection is impossible to ignore,” Ms Benham said. “For too long, our community has raised concerns about this dangerous stretch of road. With increasing traffic, pedestrian activity, and a history of serious incidents, urgent action is needed now.
“Beyond improving safety at the intersection, traffic lights would also help reduce vehicle speed and congestion near Mildura South Primary School,” Ms Benham said.
During a recent visit to the school with Leader of The Nationals, Danny O’Brien, Ms Benham met with Principal Simon Trembath, who expressed serious concerns about heavy traffic volumes affecting student safety.
“Parents should not have to fear for their children’s safety just trying to get to and from school,” Ms Benham said. “The heavy flow of vehicles, combined with the lack of adequate traffic control, creates an unsafe environment for students, teachers, and families. Installing traffic lights at this intersection is a necessary step in ensuring the safety of our community.”
Ms Benham also criticised the Allan Labor Government for its handling of road safety and infrastructure funding.
“Labor can’t manage money, they can’t manage our road network and it’s regional Victorians who are paying the price.”
