Two roadside rest areas across Barker will be upgraded to help combat driver fatigue and make local roads safer, thanks to funding under the Liberal and Nationals Government’s Driver Reviver Site Upgrade Program.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said there is nothing more important than saving lives, which is what this funding is all about.

“I am pleased to announce a total of $222,000 in federal funding will upgrade two sites in Barker,” Mr Pasin said.

“Kingston Driver Reviver Rest Area, located on Princess Highway has received $140,000 to complete upgrades, and Lions Club of Penola have received $82,000 to purchase a new food van, located at Greenrise Lake, Penola.” Mr Pasin said.

“Anyone who has used a Driver Reviver site here in Barker or elsewhere across the country knows how vital a place they are for safety and fatigue breaks for drivers and their passengers, and we want to ensure they continue to be that reliable break spot for even more Australians well into the future.” Mr Pasin said.

“That is why our Government is investing in these vital Driver Reviver upgrades that will help keep people safe on our roads.” Mr Pasin said.

“This funding will also support our hard-working local volunteers who put in their time and effort to man our Driver Reviver sites, offering motorists a cuppa, friendly conversations and a nice spot to take a break to manage fatigue and reduce the risk of crashes.” Mr Pasin said.

In total, the Government is providing $7.2 million to upgrade 71 sites across the country.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the program is part of the Government’s record investment in life-saving road safety initiatives.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and our Government is doing what it can to ensure Australia moves towards ‘Vision Zero’ of zero deaths on our nation’s roads,” Mr Buchholz said.

“Initiatives such as the Driver Reviver program showcase what governments and communities can achieve when working together, as well as of course the role road users can play to ensure we all get home safely at the end of each trip.

“Our investments include the $3 billion Road Safety Program, $500 million Targeted Road Safety Works initiative and further funding for innovative road safety technologies and education campaigns.”

The Australian Government is working closely with states, territories and local governments to develop the National Road Safety Strategy 2021–30 to move towards zero fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.

More information on the Australian Government’s road safety initiatives is available at www.officeofroadsafety.gov.au.