January road deaths highest in two decades

Of those lives lost so far in 2025, the majority, 23 of the fatalities, occurred on regional roads.

That’s almost double the 13 lives lost on regional roads by this time last year.

“Police are appalled at the terrible loss of life in January — the increase in regional fatalities is of particular concern to us,” road policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said.

A total of 36 fatalities were recorded in the month of January, which is the highest number of lives lost for the month since 2001, according to Victoria Police.

“Last year we saw a significant rise in road trauma involving motorcyclists, and worryingly that trend has continued into this year,” Asst Comm Weir said.

Police data shows 10 motorcyclists have died on Victorian roads this year, seven on regional roads.

Police assert that road conditions are not contributing to the significant rise in road trauma this year.

“Early indications suggest driver behaviour and driver error is largely contributing to these fatalities,” Asst Comm Weir said.

“Many people are quick to blame road conditions and other factors, but the simple fact is many of the deaths are occurring close to where people live on roads known to them — complacency is a real issue.”

Determined to avoid a repeat of January, Victoria Police is issuing an urgent warning to drivers and stepping up enforcement efforts.

Police will put a particular emphasis on high-risk regional areas, as well as motorcyclist safety.

“We know a visible police presence deters poor or careless driving, and while we will make every effort to be highly visible and enforcing across the state, we can’t just enforce our way out of this,” Asst Comm Weir said.

“All road users need to realise this is a problem that requires immediate attention, due care and commitment — it’s up to all of us to be more alert and prioritise safety when getting behind the wheel.

“Now is not the time to be complacent — if we can’t turn around this rising road trauma trend, then we can expect to see this spike continue into the remainder of 2025.”

A statewide road policing operation will be launched early in March to coincide with the Labour Day long weekend in Victoria.