2025 ACRS Award Recipients

This innovative project on rural compact roundabouts offers a low-cost solution for high-risk intersections, achieving Safe System performance. Costing $1.5 million – around 80% cheaper than traditional designs – it makes life-saving infrastructure more accessible, particularly for rural communities.
This project was underpinned by a rigorous evaluation using connected vehicle data, which demonstrated marked reductions in vehicle entry speeds, to levels within survivable limits.
After receiving a Highly Commended in this category last year, the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s persistence and commitment to Vision Zero has truly paid off. Their tenacity and evidence-based approach have set a new benchmark in road safety innovation. 
Pictured at right (L to R): Mathew McQuinn and Brett Whitwam from Mornington Peninsula Shire.

2025 ACRS Excellence in Road Safety – Highly Commended

MotoCAP and CRASH safety ratings
This groundbreaking collaboration from partners across Australia and New Zealand has transformed motorcycle safety through the development of clear, independent information to choose the safest helmets and protective clothing. The MotoCAP and CRASH Safety Ratings tests and  rates gear – far beyond minimum standards – empowering riders with evidence-based safety ratings and breaking down cost barriers to quality protection.
Pictured at right (L to R): Sandra Pangestu and Tom Whyte from CRASH and MotoCAP

2025 ACRS Excellence in Road Safety – Highly Commended

Auckland Transport and New Zealand Police
Through “Operation Drink-Free Summer” and “Operation Multiplier”, Auckland Transport and New Zealand Police combined targeted media campaigns, innovative data analysis, and record-breaking breath-testing to send a powerful message: if you drink and drive, you will be caught. This world-first methodology, and evidence-based approach delivered outstanding results, including a 51% reduction in alcohol-related deaths and a 26% drop in serious injuries in Auckland.
Pictured at right (L to R): Stephen Greally from New Zealand Police and Ping Sim from Auckland Transport

Judy Williams (pictured left) is a leader whose dedication and energy have helped save countless lives on our roads. For more than nine years as Global Programme and Communications Manager at iRAP, Judy has inspired over 34,000 partners worldwide, helping them achieve life saving success and accountability in the shared vision of safer roads for all.
With a career spanning over 25 years, Judy has supported international road safety programmes across the globe and championed opportunities for women to become leaders in engineering and road safety. She is known not for seeking the limelight, but for empowering those around her to shine.

Professor Stuart Newstead (pictured right) is the Director of the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), and an internationally renowned leader in road safety research and policy, whose groundbreaking work has transformed how vehicle safety is understood and applied worldwide.
From creating the world first Used Car Safety Ratings program to leading landmark evaluations that have shaped legislation and reduced road trauma, his impact is felt across Australia and beyond. A dedicated mentor and global thought leader, Stuart has advanced knowledge, influenced policy, and inspired the next generation of road safety experts.

Elias Visontay (pictured left) is the National Consumer Affairs Reporter at the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age newspapers.
Through months of meticulous research with the Guardian Australia, he examined the growing dominance of large vehicles in Australia, and their troubling safety implications, particularly for vulnerable road users.
By centring expert voices, peer-reviewed evidence, and real-life experiences, Elias has brought vital public attention to the impact of large SUVs and utility vehicles on the rising rates of road trauma.

A Senior Lecturer at the Australian Catholic University and a dedicated road safety researcher, Dr Joanne Bennett (pictured right) leads groundbreaking initiatives that protect our most vulnerable road users. Her projects – from improving pedestrian safety among older Australians to co-designing culturally responsive programs with First Nations communities – are transforming lives and reducing road trauma across the country.
As Chair of the ACRS Early Career Network, she has championed emerging professionals and co-led national leadership programs. Known for her empathy, strategic vision, and collaborative spirit, Dr Bennett is not only shaping the future of road safety but empowering the next generation to lead it.