Helping drivers stay safe and alert for Easter holidays

Published date: 31 Mar 2026

The TAC is urging people travelling on Victorian roads over the Easter school holidays to rest up, take breaks and drive safely.

A road safety partnership between the TAC and VICSES will deliver the Easter Driver Reviver and TAC Pause Stop programs, helping people stay safe on their long weekend road trips and reminding motorists of the dangers of driving tired.

These initiatives aim to reduce fatigue-related road trauma, which increases during peak holiday periods like Easter and school holidays, when traffic volume is higher and journeys are longer.

Tired drivers contribute to 16-20 per cent of fatal crashes on Victorian roads each year, while accounting for approximately 25 per cent of road trauma injuries at The Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals.

Research by Monash University and the TAC shows drivers who get fewer than five hours’ sleep are four times more likely to crash.

This long weekend, TAC Pause Stops, including free barista coffee, games and giveaways, will activate at popular existing VICSES Driver Reviver sites at Marong on Thursday afternoon, Balmattum and Jeetho on Good Friday and Balmattum South and Marong on Easter Monday.

The partnership will also support Victorian footy fans travelling to and from the AFL’s Gather Round in South Australia. A rest stop will be in place at Dimboola on Sunday, 12 April to support drivers returning along the Western Highway.

The Easter school holidays come as 60 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads so far this year.

To support safer driving, the TAC has re-launched its fatigue campaign, Driving tired? Wake up to yourself, reminding motorists that driving tired puts lives at risk.

The campaign, including a hard-hitting television ad, will run until 30 June.

For more information on TAC Pause Stop program and VICSES Driver Reviver rest stop locations, and tips on how to avoid driving tired, visit www.tac.vic.gov.au/pausestop

Quote attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne:

“Long weekends mean more cars on the road and a higher risk of fatigue-related crashes – that’s why drivers must take regular breaks and never drive tired.”

“A short stop can make all the difference, helping you stay alert and get to your destination safely.”

Quotes attributable to Transport Accident Commission CEO, Tracey Slatter:

“Easter is one of the busiest periods on our roads, and we’re calling on every driver to start their journey rested and ready. Fatigue slows your reactions and puts lives at risk, so take your time and travel responsibly.”

“We’re urging all Victorians to prioritise safety for themselves, their families and everyone sharing the road, as they head into the Easter break – rest up, slow down, put the phone away and separate drinking from driving.”

Download Hi-ResA pause from the road might save your life