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Deakin safer driver virtual reality program receives $390,000 funding boost

JMR with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development The Hon Barnaby Joyce MP

A high tech virtual reality program hosted by Deakin University Geelong Campus will boost safer driving skills for heavy and light vehicle drivers, thanks to a $390,000 funding boost from the Morrison Government.

Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said Deakin University’s new program is one of 28 road safety projects sharing in $5.5 million in grants through Round 6 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).

“The Morrison Government is backing new education, research, training and technology initiatives that aim to deliver improved safety outcomes for the heavy vehicle industry and wider community,” Senator Henderson said.

“The initiatives include education programs for younger drivers on how to share the road with heavy vehicles and field-testing safety chain solutions to prevent heavy vehicle trailer separation incidents.

“The investment in Deakin University will enable the development of an extended suite of virtual reality educational experiences aimed at providing increased awareness around light and heavy vehicle interactions for younger drivers,” Senator Henderson said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government was funding programs that would help save lives and reduce road trauma.

“Our Government is focused on ensuring road users stay safe and arrive at their destination every time they get behind the wheel,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“That’s why we’re investing in new and innovative initiatives that will deliver improved safety outcomes for workers in our heavy vehicle industry as well as regular motorists.

“We want every driver to be safe and projects funded under the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative are helping to reduce the number of serious injuries and fatalities on our roads.”

A full list of successful Round 6 projects is available at: www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi

ENDS

9 September 2021

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