Broome plan to drive down the road toll

November 6, 2024

By PETER ROWE

First Nations people are three times more likely to die on the road. Fact.

And the Nirruumbuk Aboriginal Corporation driving school in Broome is one organisation that is trying to lower that shocking statistic.

791 First Nations people died in road crashes between 2012 and 2021, comparable to 12.7 out of every 100,000 First Nations people.

The rate for non-First Nations people was 4.6 people per 100,000.

Aiden Dann has been one of a number of success stories around the project.

The Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation has funded more than 800 driving lessons in the Broome region and helped 40 get their driving licences.

“It is really important to make sure the person knows how to drive safely,” Operations manager Liam Wright told the ABC.

While WA has had a bad year for road deaths, three last Saturday alone – and 142 in total – the number of deaths in the Kimberley has dropped.

In 2023 five people died on roads in the State’s northwest – all from not wearing seatbelts.

Road safety research has highlighted several key factors why First Nations drivers are more at risk, including the cost of lessons and getting a licence and poorly maintained vehicles.

Poorer quality roads are another issue as is overcrowded vehicles.

Aiden Dann has been one of a number of success stories around the project, passing his test recently before relocating to Melbourne to pursue a career in football.

“I would like to thank Nirrumbuk for helping me get my licence so that I can secure employment,” Aiden said.

 

 

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