A total of 240 people died on Victorian roads, an increase from 233 in 2021.
Victorian Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne has called the statistics a tragedy.
“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by road trauma — we can’t accept that anyone should lose their life, or have it permanently changed, as a result of getting behind the wheel,” Ms Horne said.
Regional roads accounted for 134 deaths, an increase from the 119 deaths in 2021, while 106 motorists died on metropolitan roads, a decrease from 114 who perished in 2021.
More than two thirds of regional fatalities occurred on 100km/h or 110km/h roads.
There was a decline in driver and passenger deaths, 126 compared to 147 in 2021; however, seatbelt use is still of concern to authorities, with 27 per cent of those dying not wearing a seatbelt.
Motorcyclists accounted for 57 deaths and pedestrians counted for a further 44. Both are an increase from 2021.
Despite these statistics, the state government is still aiming to reach its targets set out in its Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030 and Action Plan, which includes halving the number of fatalities by 2030.
The 2021-22 budget set aside $49.4 million to install and commission new fixed road safety cameras at 35 dangerous intersection sites and two point-to-point highway camera systems.
These cameras will begin operating throughout 2023.
Authorities said poor driver behaviour, including speeding and drink or drug driving, has continued to contribute to lives lost on the roads.
The Andrews Government has urged Victorians to put safety first by slowing down, not being distracted and never drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines reminded Victorians that police would be out enforcing road rules.
“We want to see all Victorians making smart choices behind the wheel this new year and getting home safely,” he said.
“If you speed, use your phone or drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, rest assured — you will be caught.”
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