E&OE...
Listen to this Speech (MP3 - 1.32Mb - 86secs)
Good morning,
A few days ago, the Deputy Prime Minister announced an extension of the highly successful Black Spots road funding program with a new injection of $345 million.
This is money that will be spent removing dangerous, and sometimes deadly, locations on Australian roads.
The Government has already spent more than $400 million on this program eliminating thousands of dangerous locations across the country.
It is estimated by about this time next year that some 130 lives will have been saved as a result of the Black Spots program.
About half the Black Spots funding is spent in regional areas because of the high level of accidents on country roads.
The Federal Government has been able to make this kind of important investment because we have managed the economy carefully and effectively.
With many Australians heading out on the roads over the Easter break, it is important that all motorists exercise great care.
Please take regular breaks and stop and rest if you're tired. Enjoy the Easter holiday and let's all arrive home safely.
[ends]
Listen to this Speech (MP3 - 1.32Mb - 86secs)