The state government is looking at lowering speed limits on the state’s beaches to improve safety, following the lead taken on Fleurieu beaches this summer.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport has previously approved a speed limit of 10 km/h for Moana, Aldinga and Sellicks beaches and recently approved a 40km/h speed limit for Goolwa Beach, after lobbying from Alexandrina Council.

All South Australians now have the opportunity to have their say on proposed options to lower beach speed limits.

Currently, beaches in South Australia are considered ‘road related areas’ under the Road Traffic Act 1961 and the Australian Road Rules. 

This means that where there is no signed speed limit, the default speed limit for a non built-up area of 100km/h applies.

In the period 2017-2021, there were 29 reported crashes on beaches resulting in the loss of one life, 15 serious injuries and 13 minor injuries.

Speed was reported as a contributing factor in approximately 50 per cent of these crashes.

As part of a state government review to improve beach safety, a survey has been launched to gather feedback about four options to better manage speed limits on beaches:

• Option 1 is a default beach speed limit of 40km/h
• Option 2 is a  default beach speed limit of 25km/h.
• Option 3 is a default beach speed limit of 40km/h and 25km/h when passing or within 100 metres of a pedestrian.
• Option 4 is no change to the default speed limits.

Mawson MP Leon Bignell says South Australians are fortunate to have beaches where people can drive their cars. 

“It makes beaches accessible for older people and those with mobility issues. 

“Families can pack the car full of sporting equipment and shades and enjoy everything from beach cricket to stand up paddle boarding. 

“But the risk has to be managed and anywhere there are people - especially children - mixing with vehicles we need to have rules to make the environment as safe as possible. 

“It’s why I support the government’s move to consult the people of SA to come up with suggestions on making our beaches safer.“

To submit feedback on the four options, visit the YourSay website before consultation closes on Friday 17 March.