Promoting Safer Roads for CALD Seniors through Transport for NSW’s Community Road Safety Program

As part of Transport for NSW’s Community Road Safety Program, ECCNSW is proudly delivering Road Safety Awareness Workshops for CALD Seniors, aimed at promoting safer behaviours and reducing road trauma among multicultural communities. This initiative focuses on increasing awareness and understanding of road and vehicle safety through in-language education for seniors aged 55 and over from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

The program involves the delivery of workshops in nine community languages, designed to improve knowledge of road safety practices—particularly in areas of pedestrian and driver safety—and to reduce the risk of incidents, injuries, and fatalities among senior community members.

To ensure cultural relevance and accessibility:

• Experienced bilingual facilitators were recruited and trained to lead the workshops, enabling clear and trusted communication.
• Educational content was developed in alignment with NSW road safety priorities, then translated and tailored to reflect the specific needs and risks experienced by CALD seniors.
• In-language sessions have commenced in several high-risk local government areas (LGAs), incorporating interactive activities that encourage peer learning and open discussion.
• Translated materials have been distributed at sessions and community events, offering practical take-home information for participants and their families.

Ongoing feedback from participants, facilitators, and community leaders continues to shape and refine the delivery approach, ensuring that workshops remain relevant and impactful.

Early outcomes indicate strong engagement and positive responses. CALD seniors have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn in their first language from familiar, trusted facilitators. Many participants reported improved understanding of road rules and early adoption of safer behaviours, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness and its vital role in fostering road safety within multicultural communities.