Funding is available for the treatment of Black Spot sites, or road lengths, with a proven history of crashes. Project proposals should demonstrate a benefit to cost ratio of at least 2 to 1, and meet the following crash criteria:
| Urban | Regional and Rural | |
|---|---|---|
| Intersections, mid-blocks, and short sections | Three casualty crashes over a five-year period. | Two casualty crashes over a five-year period. |
| Road lengths | Average of 0.2 casualty crashes per km per annum over the length in question over a five year period. | Average of 0.13 casualty crashes per km per annum over the length in question over a five year period. |
The requirement of a history of crashes ensures that those sites that have a recurrent problem are targeted first for treatment.
The Program also recognises that there are road locations that could be considered as 'accidents waiting to happen'. Therefore, some program funds may be used to treat sites where road traffic engineers have completed a Road Safety Audit or Safe Systems Assessment or equivalent report, and found that remedial work is necessary. This allows an opportunity for proactive safety works to be undertaken before casualties occur.
Funds cannot be used for the purchase of road-building plant or equipment, or for operational or maintenance costs.
Environmental and heritage implications
All approved Black Spot projects with significant environmental or heritage implications will need to comply with the requirements of relevant Australian Government and state/territory legislation.