School holiday drivers urged to plan ahead and slow down

Published date: 21 Sep 2026

The Transport Accident Commission is reminding motorists to prioritise safety, avoid driving tired and slow down, as Victorians embark on September school holiday travels.

With the Victorian roads becoming busier, and many families taking long-distance road trips, it is critical that drivers plan ahead for a safe journey, take regular breaks, and slow down.

Tired driving remains a significant road safety risk, contributing to between 16 and 20 per cent of fatal crashes on Victorian roads each year and increasing the likelihood of serious and life-changing crashes.

Research has shown that drivers are four times more likely to crash if they’ve had less than five hours’ sleep.

The message comes as 186 people have lost their lives on Victoria's roads so far this year, 31 fewer than at the same time in 2025. Despite the overall reduction this year, there were 18 fatalities on the state’s roads in the September school holidays last year, demonstrating there is never room for complacency.

Drivers are encouraged to be prepared for their travels, be well planned for their journey, get a good night’s sleep before a trip, stop and rest every two hours, share driving where possible and avoid travelling when they would normally be sleeping.

The reminder is supported through the TAC's partnership with the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), which sees Pause Stop fatigued driving messaging displayed at 15 Visitor Information Centres across Victoria to encourage motorists to take a break and arrive safely at their destination.

While managing fatigue is particularly important during long-distance holiday travel, motorists are also reminded that every safe choice behind the wheel matters.

As more people travel across the state over the school holidays, drivers are also urged to slow down and drive to the conditions, put the phone away, never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs and ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seatbelt.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Paul Hamer

“Fewer people have lost their lives on Victorian roads so far this year compared to the same time last year – but there is no room for complacency.”

“Every life lost is a tragedy, and we all have a responsibility to make sure we get to where we’re going safely.”

Quotes attributable to TAC CEO, Tracey Slatter

"We want every Victorian to enjoy the school holidays and get home safely. That means slowing down, planning ahead, and remembering that no trip is worth taking risks for."

"Fatigue can affect drivers long before they fall asleep at the wheel. If you're starting to lose concentration, struggling to keep your eyes open or feeling tired, don't push through it. Pull over, take a break and arrive safely."