The Federal Government has marked National Road Safety Week by announcing the continuation of funding for the critical work of independent vehicle safety consumer organisation Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) for another five years.
The Government's $6.64 million commitment to fund ANCAP for another five years will assist the organisation to continue the role it plays in testing and assessing new cars, providing information for consumers about vehicle safety and general advocacy about safety on Australia's roads.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, the Hon Michael McCormack MP, said the work of ANCAP is vital to improving the safety of vehicles on Australian roads.
“We are investing in making roads safer around Australia—especially in the regions—which helps drivers, but this is just one piece of the puzzle,” Mr McCormack said.
“That's why the Government is working as best it can with state and territory governments, road safety advocates and organisations, such as ANCAP, to head towards zero road fatalities in Australia.”
ANCAP Chief Executive James Goodwin noted the important role safer vehicles play in reducing road trauma.
“Continued emphasis to elevate the safety of new vehicles—as well as to reduce the overall age of the nation's registered vehicle fleet—are critical to reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by serious crashes,” Mr Goodwin said.
“All Australian road users will see the benefits of this contribution, with the new funding commitment enabling ANCAP to further broaden its range of tests, and expand its advocacy and community education activities.”
This renewed commitment sees Federal support of the ANCAP program continue until at least 2023.
For more information on ANCAP visit www.ancap.com.au.