Published on Monday, 14 July 2025 at 4:59:44 PM
Main Roads WA has approved a request by the Shire to reinstate non-signposted default speed limits on a number of rural roads within the district.
The audit and review of speed limits on the Shire’s rural roads was initiated in 2023 to ensure the safety of road users. However, after the Shire received feedback about the speed limits and non-compliance with the speed limits became evident, in March 2025 the Shire requested Main Roads WA to review the rural road speed limits so consistency across the road network, particularly related to roads less than 5.5m wide, could be achieved.
Shire President Rob Coales said the Shire welcomed the decision from Main Roads WA to support its request to provide consistency in road speed limits on its rural roads.
As the WA road toll climbs to the highest ever in the past decade, President Coales urged motorists to have caution and responsibility on all roads, and especially ones in rural areas which might be varied in width and sealing.
“This outcome is a good one for our residents, however we really must emphasise that care should be taken at all times when driving on these smaller roads within our Shire,” said President Coales.
“Road safety is up to everyone - every driver who gets into their car to make a trip has a responsibly to make every journey safe.”
“It’s easy to be focused on getting somewhere quickly but the focus needs to be shifted to getting there safely.”
As part of Main Roads’ approval, discussions will also progress on installation of signage in rural areas, reminding drivers of the risks associated with driving on rural roads.
The biggest focus in the Shire’s 2025/26 budget is improving the standard of local roads, with several critical major projects planned to take shape over the next 12 months, including $5.9 million towards construction of three roundabouts along Kargotich Road (multiple year projects totalling $17m fully grant funded) and $4.1m of MRRG Rehabilitation and Upgrade funded projects (King Road, Nettleton Road, Hopeland Road and Mundijong Road/Paterson Street intersection).
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