The Australasian College of Road Safety (ACRS) proudly announced the winners of the 2024 ACRS Road Safety Awards at the annual Gala dinner on Wednesday 2 October 2024 at the annual Australasian Road Safety Conference held in Hobart, Tasmania. These prestigious awards recognise exceptional leadership, research, and innovation in road safety, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations committed to reducing road trauma and promoting safer transport systems across Australasia.
Senator Anthony Chisholm, the Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, addressed the audience at the awards ceremony and commended the excellent contributions of the road safety specialists that were nominated.
In his address, the Assistant Minister acknowledged the critical role these professionals play in promoting evidence-based research and advancing road safety initiatives both here in Australia and across the globe.
“Improving road safety benefits all Australians, and it’s through the hard work of specialists, researchers, and advocates that we continue to see advances in this space,” said Assistant Minister Chisholm.
“Our government is committed to reducing road trauma by investing in safer infrastructure, supporting community-led road safety programmes, and prioritising collaboration between local governments, industry, and international road safety experts. Together, we’re working toward achieving Vision Zero and ensuring that every journey on our nation’s roads is a safer one.”
The winners of the 2024 ACRS Road Safety Awards are:
Young Leaders Oration Award: Dr Prasannah Prabhakharan
Dr Prasannah Prabhakharan, Road Safety Policy Lead at the NSW Centre for Road Safety, Transport for NSW, was honoured with the 2024 ACRS Young Leaders Oration Award. Prasannah’s unwavering commitment to Vision Zero, coupled with his extensive experience spanning over 14 years in academia, research, and government sectors, has solidified his status as a rising leader in the field. With a PhD in Human Factors and Traffic Psychology, Prasannah has been instrumental in advancing road safety policy in New South Wales and across Australia. His involvement in the ACRS NSW Chapter has strengthened stakeholder relationships and fostered opportunities for early career professionals. Watch the oration here.
Women in Road Safety Award: Sjaan Koppel
Associate Professor Sjaan Koppel, from the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), was awarded the 2024 ACRS Women in Road Safety Award for her contributions to road safety research and advocacy. Sjaan, a leader in researching the safe mobility of vulnerable road users, has held key roles at MUARC since 2004, including leading the Behavioural Safety Science team. Her dedication to improving road safety, especially for older adults and children, combined with her passion for advancing the careers of women in the field, has earned her global recognition and respect.
Fellowship Award: Eric Howard
Eric Howard AM was awarded the 2024 ACRS Fellowship Award in recognition of his decades of leadership in road safety. Eric’s extensive career has included roles such as General Manager of Road Safety at VicRoads and CEO of the Yarra Ranges Council. He is a global leader in road safety management, working in over 30 countries and making significant contributions to policy and strategy development. Eric’s introduction of the ‘Safe System’ approach in Victoria led to a substantial reduction in road fatalities, and his influence continues to shape road safety initiatives worldwide.
Excellence in Road Safety Award: The George Institute for Global Health
The George Institute for Global Health was recognised with the 2024 ACRS Excellence in Road Safety Award for its project, “User-driven solutions to reduce incorrect use of child restraint systems.” This innovative project addressed a critical road safety issue by developing a user-centric approach to improving the communication and understanding of child restraint use. The project’s impact on reducing the risk of injury to young road users is expected to influence safety standards across Australia, ensuring children are protected effectively in vehicles. This award was received by Dr Julie Brown.
Excellence in Road Safety Award: Highly Commended Winners
- City of Onkaparinga Council: For their project, “Low cost and transferrable Rural Junction Active Warning System (RJAWS ‘Lite’),” the City of Onkaparinga Council implemented an intelligent, low-cost warning system at a rural intersection, which has significantly enhanced driver awareness and reduced collisions. This award was received by Brett Williams.
- Mornington Peninsula Shire Council: Awarded for the “Safer Speeds on Rural Roads” project, the Mornington Peninsula Shire successfully implemented 80 km/h speed limits on high-risk rural roads, reducing road trauma and earning strong community support. This award was received by Mathew McQuinn and Brett Whitwam.