With road trauma the leading cause death for children, the Queensland Government has rolled out a new online program to all state primary schools.
State Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the program would teach Year 5 and 6 students essential road safety knowledge and decision-making skills.
He said Journi had been designed with expertise from leading road safety specialists at The Department of Transport and Main Roads and Australian Road Safety Foundation, as well as teachers and students, to ensure its effectiveness in the classroom.
“Road trauma remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1–14 years, which is why it’s important to ensure young children are aware of the dangers on and near our roads.”
Minister Mickelberg said the program consisted of four flexible modules on a range of topics, including in-car distractions, pedestrian visibility, seatbelts and sitting safely, which would allow teachers to tailor the lessons to suit their students’ needs and classroom schedules.
He said as part of the rollout, the Foundation would lead a dedicated school engagement initiative, ensuring teachers had the tools and support needed to deliver the potentially life-saving education.
“After a shocking year on Queensland roads, we must do more to protect our young people.
“We know that early, frequent road safety education for children as they grow helps set the attitudes and behaviours, they need to become safe and responsible road users, both now and in the future,” Mr Mickelberg said.
