The meeting next Wednesday is part of a Government review, sparked by last month’s potentially disastrous truck crash at the bottom of the freeway which led to nine people being hospitalised and the driver charged with multiple offences.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis will host the industry roundtable, which will include representatives of road freight and heavy vehicle associations, SA Police, the RAA and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator.

Koutsantonis said the Government’s review will explore “all options” to improve safety on the downhill stretch of the freeway.

The roundtable was an opportunity for key parties to have input.

“This review will consider all aspects of safety on the freeway down-track, from infrastructure and technology requirements to driver training and education,” he said.

“The roundtable’s participants will collaboratively consider current challenges – particularly in light of the most recent incident – and opportunities for improvement.
That will include a review of education and operation practices and developing any further approaches necessary.

“Of course, we cannot prevent every instance of poor decision-making or driver error, but we can ensure the down-track is as safe as it can be for all road users.”

As well as driver training and improved compliance with the law, the review is examining potential infrastructure improvements, including a third safety ramp.