The Tasmanian Road Safety Council (TRSC) was established by the Minister for Infrastructure, Energy and Resources in late 1999. Its key objective is to consult with the community on road safety issues, together with provide advice to government on policy and legislative issues.

The TRSC plays a very important role in developing the Government's road safety agenda and providing high-level advice on road safety legislation and policy. It also provides input into the development of the Tasmanian and National Road Safety Strategies.

The TRSC taps into community thinking in order to better understand road safety issues at a local level. To this end, it holds regular meetings in Hobart to discuss issues from around the State.

The new 'Safe' road sign minimizes impact damage.

Launching North Hobart 40 kmph Zone.

Activities initiated by the TRSC under Doug's Chairmanship:

• Implementation of the Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy 2002-2006
• Undertook review of Speed Zoning Practices in Tasmania that has resulted in extensive community consultation on options
• Development of the Tasmanian Motorcycle Safety Strategy 2005-2006
• Establishment of the Community Road Safety Partnership (CRSP) Program which addresses local road safety issues including: assistance gaining 50 hours for learners; pedestrian and bicycle safety; drink driving; heavy vehicle safety; young driver education; older driver education; and migrant and tourist safety.
• Overseen and evaluated the impact of the introduction of the 50km/h urban speed limit across the State
• Review of automatic loss of licence for excessive speed
• Overseen major changes to the learner driver licensing system (including introduction of minimum 50 hours log book of driving experience)
• Currently investigating confiscation of vehicles for serious road safety offences
• Introduction of compulsory carriage of licence
• Currently investigating issues related to novice drivers such as curfews, passenger restrictions, vehicle power and rewards for good driving behaviour.
• Increased penalties for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving
• Involved in confiscation of vehicles for anti-social ‘hooning’ offences
• Considered issues surrounding tourist road safety
• Involved in issue of fatigue, particularly in heavy vehicle industry (driving hours)
• Considered older driver safety issues
• Continuing improvement to learner driver licensing and novice driver reforms