Australia’s rising road toll: What the latest data shows

In 1970, 3,798 people lost their lives on Australian roads. This was the highest road toll ever recorded in Australia and a moment that prompted major national road safety reforms. 

Over the decades that followed, sweeping safety reforms helped cut the toll dramatically.

Victoria became the first jurisdiction in the world to introduce mandatory seatbelt laws and random breath testing, and speed cameras became common fixtures on major highways. These measures made Australian roads safer and saved countless lives.

By 2019, the annual death toll had fallen by almost 70% compared with the peak recorded in 1970.

However, recent statistics show the long-term decline has stalled. In 2025, 1,314 people were killed on Australian roads, a 1.7% increase from the previous year, with factors such as speeding, distraction, impairment, fatigue, and increased traffic identified as key contributors. This concerning trend highlights the need for renewed focus on road safety across all levels of government and the community.

So, what can we do to save lives on our roads?

Road toll statistics around Australia

Recent figures from across the states and territories show fatalities remain unacceptably high:

• New South Wales recorded one of the highest tolls since 2017, with 355 deaths in 2025, the highest since 2017.
• Victoria and Queensland also experienced significant loss of life, with 290 deaths in Victoria (+2.1%) and 308 in Queensland (+2.0%).
• Western Australia saw a decline with fatalities falling to 163 deaths (a 2.7% decrease).
• Other jurisdictions reported mixed results, with some decreases in deaths, but ongoing concern among road safety authorities.

How does our road toll compare internationally?

According to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Australia recorded 4.7 deaths per 100,000 people, ranking 20th out of the 34 countries. This places Australia roughly in the middle of comparable nations. Countries such as Norway, Sweden and Iceland report significantly lower fatality rates, largely due to sustained investments in road safety, infrastructure and vehicle standards.

Tragically, road accidents remain one of the leading causes of death for Australians aged 15–24, accounting for roughly one in four deaths in this age group.

Contributing factors to the rising road toll

Several factors are contributing to the current trend:

• More vehicles and changing travel patterns, including higher traffic volumes following COVID-19 pandemic.
• Speeding, which remains a major risk factor in fatal crashes.
• Distracted driving, particularly mobile phone use.
• Impaired and fatigued driving which continues to claim lives despite ongoing awareness campaigns.

Studies also show that pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply in recent years, highlighting the risk faced by vulnerable road users. In 2025, pedestrian deaths reached an 18 year high of 197, with cyclist death also jumping 32% to reach a 12 year high of 49.

What can we do to bring down our road toll?

The National Road Safety Strategy 2021-30 aims to halve deaths by 2030. However, current data shows fatalities have increased by around 22% since the strategy began. There are a few simple ways drivers can protect themselves, their families and all road users.

However, there are a few simple steps drivers can take to protect themselves, their families and other road users:

1. Slow down

Driving even slightly over the speed limit puts you and others at risk. Reducing your speed by just 5km/h can significantly lower the risk of death or serious injury in a crash.

2. Minimise distraction

Do not use your phone while driving. Use hands-free technology (if necessary), enable "do not disturb while driving", and enter navigation details before starting your journey.

3. Avoid drivinge tired

Driving after 17 hours without sleep can impair you to a similar level as a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05. Make sure you are well rested before driving and take regular breaks on a long trip, at least 15 minutes every two hours.

4. Never drink and drive

If you plan to drink, organise a designated driver, take a taxi or rideshare, or use public transport.

5. Always wear a seatbelt

Wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of fatal injury in a crash. Always buckle up before driving and ensure all passengers do the same.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the road, our team is here to help you understand your rights and the support available.

Use our free claim check tool to find out if you have a claim, or contact us today to speak with one of our expert road accident lawyers.