ROADSIDE REST AREAS

286 Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (23 October 2007). How many roadside rest areas have been created on South Australian roads, funded by the State or Federal Governments but installed by State or Local Government organisations, what is the policy concerning roadside rest areas, what is the key function of roadside rest areas and will more rest areas be provided?

The Hon. P.F. CONLON (Elder—Minister for Transport, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Energy): I provide the following information:

There are approximately 400 rest areas along the major routes in South Australia, including the primary freight network and key long distance tourist routes.

Roadside rest areas are provided on other roads within South Australia, however accurate figures are not currently kept on these roads.

The policy concerning roadside rest areas is to provide appropriate rest opportunities for long distance travellers. Roadside rest areas are positioned to create a network of rest opportunities that includes townships and commercial operations. Roadside rest areas provide short term rest opportunities for all road users and act as a tool for the management of driver fatigue. Rest areas are of particular importance to heavy vehicle drivers who must comply with regulatory requirements for fatigue management.

As part of the Government's commitment to improving road safety, in particular in addressing the issue of heavy vehicle driver fatigue, an improvement program for rest areas of $10 million over 4 years (commencing 2007-08) is currently being undertaken.

As part of this improvement program, it is proposed to create in excess of 50 new rest areas at various locations on our key highways in order to address known spacing deficiencies. It is desirable to have a rest opportunity no greater than 50km apart or every half an hour of driving.

The program will also see the improvement of the facilities in a majority of existing rest areas.