In addition to the $98 million allocated in the 2023/24 State Budget, the state government will fund road safety upgrades for roads, footpaths and cycleways via an $84 million top-up as part of the mid-year budget review.

Alongside an $84 million federal government contribution, the combined total being put toward reducing injuries and fatalities on SA roads will be $266 million over five years.

The state government said the investment would include funding for new regional works such as shoulder sealing, audio-tactile line markings, roadside barriers, lane/curve widening and pavement works.

The new Road Safety Program also invests in cycling and walking infrastructure including new pedestrian and cyclist crossings, pedestrian safety upgrades at existing intersections and crossings, and school zone projects.

So far, 109 people have been killed on SA roads this year – around half of which have been in regional areas. This compares to 66 road fatalities at this time last year.

Treasurer Stephen Mullighan said he was pleased to see state and federal governments work together.

“This major investment targets regional roads, where about half of all road fatalities have occurred in SA this year, as well as cycling and walking infrastructure across Adelaide and the state,” he said.

“I am pleased to see the state and federal governments working together to improve road safety and look forward to seeing which projects are given the green light in the new year.”

Police and Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs said 2023 had been a “tragic year for fatalities”.

“It is more crucial than ever to improve our regional and urban roads, and cycleways to ensure they are as safe as possible,” he said.

The state Opposition said the state government had “failed South Australians when it comes to road safety, overseeing $400 million worth of vital infrastructure cuts leaving projects like the Hahndorf Township Improvements and Access Upgrade, Main South Road Productivity Package, Old Belair Road Upgrade, Onkaparinga Valley Road – Tiers Road-Nairne Road Intersection Upgrade and the Truro Freight Route on the road to nowhere”.

“Christmas should be a time enjoyed with loved ones, but sadly it is one of the most dangerous times on our roads,” Liberal transport spokesman Vincent Tarzia said.

“Any life lost is one too many – but to see a 65 per cent surge in our road toll this year is completely devastating.

“With lives at stake, now is not the time for Peter Malinauskas and Labor to put their feet up and relax – we need to see greater action to make sure South Australians are kept safe this festive season.”