A new e-petition sponsored by State Member for Northcote Kat Theophanous is now live on the Parliament of Victoria website, calling for urgent safety improvements at two key intersections in Thornbury: Darebin Road at Wilmoth Street and Station Street at Collins Street.
These are busy local crossings, used daily by students from Thornbury High, families, cyclists and public transport users. Yet at present, residents do not feel safe using them - particularly during peak school drop-off and pick-up times.
The petition calls on the Victorian Government to commission an expert-led traffic safety audit to assess risks and develop evidence-based recommendations that improve access and safety for all.
This action builds on sustained local advocacy and collaboration over several months.
Earlier this year, we convened a community meeting at Thornbury High School, bringing together Kat Theophanous MP, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Darebin, school leadership and parents to explore safety concerns and share local knowledge.
Shortly after, Kat Theophanous MP raised the issue in the Victorian Parliament via an adjournment debate, where she made the following request:
“That the Minister for Roads and Road Safety work with me, with the community, with the Department of Transport and Planning and with local stakeholders to urgently assess what’s needed to improve the safety of these routes – and to deliver the necessary upgrades.”
While the Department of Transport and Planning is responsible for arterial roads such as Station Street and Darebin Road, Council plays a critical role in advocating for local safety improvements and supporting any future audit or treatment options that may be proposed.
A coordinated, evidence-based approach across agencies will be essential to ensure a meaningful outcome.
Residents can sign the petition to add their voices to the call for safer, more inclusive streets in Thornbury via www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/traffic-safety-audit-for-intersections-in-thornbury/.
The petition will close on 3 December 2025.
