WIRE ROPE SAFETY BARRIERS

In reply to the Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Leader of the Opposition) (23 September 2008).

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO (Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Road Safety, Minister for Gambling, Minister Assisting the Minister for Multicultural Affairs): I am advised:

1. The Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure considered that wider research and consultation undertaken at a national level, was sufficient to make an informed decision about the use of wire rope safety barriers.

2. The typical installation costs of safety barriers are:

Wire rope safety barrier $140 per metre

W-beam steel barrier $120 per metre; $160 per metre double sided

Concrete (new jersey) barrier $350 per metre

The wire rope safety barrier is selected because of its containment capabilities and inherent characteristics to minimise occupant injury—not because of the cost consideration.