Unley Road speed reduction - safer streets for everyone

Published on 31 January 2025

This initiative, in partnership with the City of Adelaide and the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), will help make Unley Road a safer and more accessible space for everyone.

 Unley Road is a vital route for many road users—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The new 50 km/h limit aims to improve safety along this busy corridor. Studies show that reducing speed limits can lower the risk and severity of accidents, providing more reaction time for drivers and creating safer crossings for pedestrians.

Slowing down the traffic will also make it safer and easier for cyclists to share the road with vehicles, enhancing the overall experience for all users.

 Mayor Michael Hewitson highlighted the importance of this change.  'The safety of our community is always a top priority. By reducing the speed limit, we are creating a safer environment for all who use Unley Road, whether they are walking, cycling, or driving,' the mayor said.

 In addition to improving safety, the new speed limit is expected to benefit local businesses along Unley Road. Lower traffic speeds make business precincts more approachable for customers, whether they are driving and looking for a parking spot or walking along the street.

The more pedestrian-friendly environment encourages people to slow down, explore, and support local shops, cafes, and services.

While the speed limit change is designed to improve safety, its impact on travel time will be minimal. The adjustment from 60km/h to 50km/h will only add approximately 7 seconds to journeys along the affected section of Unley Road. During peak hours, the difference will be negligible due to the existing traffic conditions.

The City of Unley encourages all road users to take note of the new speed limit signs and adjust their driving habits to help create a safer community for all.