The first of more than 150 new time-based 40km/h speed limits on main roads near schools is now in place.
From 10 November motorists driving along Kensington Rd near Marryatville High School will need to slow down to 40km/h from 8am to 9.30am and from 2pm to 4pm, while the new speed limit on Goodwood Rd near Goodwood Primary and St Thomas School will be activated from November 11.
Electronic and standard signs have been installed to make drivers aware of the new changes, along with updated safety cameras to help keep the community safe.
These first schools were chosen by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport based on an assessment that considers the schools’ proximity to busy roads including factors such as traffic speed, volumes and crash history.
A reduced speed limit around schools will better protect students and prevent serious incidents, such as the crash on Kensington Road near Marryatville High School in March 2023, which left two students seriously injured.
An additional 25 school sites were announced in September to receive 40km/h signage, with installation scheduled throughout November and December. By the end of 2026, more than 150 schools across the state will have the new speed limit implemented.
The updated speed limits will not apply on weekends, public holidays or during school holidays, and the new 40km/h zones won’t replace the existing 25km/h school zones on local roads. Speed limits will be enforced at each site once signage is installed.
This initiative is part-funded by the $168 million National Road Safety Program in partnership with Australian Government (50:50) and the $2.36 million budgeted for road safety as part of the 2024-25 State Budget.
RAA Senior Manager of Road Safety Charles Mountain said the new limits were "an important change that will help to protect our most vulnerable road users – our children".
"Many of these locations are subject to high levels of traffic and even red-light running, so the new 40km/h time-based speed limit should improve safety during peak periods," Mr Mountain said.
"RAA encourages drivers to take extra care on roads near schools where there are lots of young pedestrians and cyclists heading to and from class each day."
SAPOL Officer in Charge of Traffic Services Branch Superintendent Shane Johnson said drivers must always keep an eye out for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists particularly around school zones.
"This change in speed limits for these crossings will mean motorists must slow down and it is also equally important to stay alert and be ready to react should something unexpected happen," Superintendent Johnson said.
"It could mean the difference between a life lost or life changing injury."
For more information on the new limits and a complete list of current and coming locations visit the Department for Infrastructure and Transport's website.
