The Queensland Government is rolling out a new, innovative online program to all state primary schools, teaching Year 5 and 6 students essential road safety knowledge and decision-making skills.
Journi has been carefully designed with expertise from leading road safety specialists at The Department of Transport and Main Roads and Australian Road Safety Foundation, as well as teachers and students, to ensure its effectiveness in the classroom.
Road trauma remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1–14 years, which is why it’s important to ensure young children are aware of the dangers on and near roads.
Journi consists of four flexible modules on a range of topics – including in-car distractions, pedestrian visibility, seatbelts and sitting safely – which will allow teachers to tailor the lessons to suit their students’ needs and classroom schedules.
As part of the rollout, the Australian Road Safety Foundation will lead a dedicated school engagement initiative, ensuring teachers have the tools and support needed to deliver this potentially life-saving education.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mr Brent Mickelberg said that after a shocking year on Queensland roads, more must be done to protect young people.
“We know that early, frequent road safety education for children as they grow helps set the attitudes and behaviours, they need to become safe and responsible road users, both now and in the future,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“Journi will reach children at ages 10 to 12, an important time when children are becoming more independent and active road users.
“I’m encouraging all Queensland primary schools to use this important program and provide students with skills to encourage a positive road safety culture.”
Australian Road Safety Foundation Chair Mr Russell White said road safety education delivered as part of the school curriculum is vital for protecting the lives of young people.
“Road trauma remains the leading cause of death for Australian children aged 1-14 years, and that’s a statistic we simply cannot accept,” Mr White said.
“This innovative program from the Queensland Government will help equip young students with essential road safety skills that could one day save their lives.
“Working alongside the Department of Transport and Main Roads and closely with Queensland schools, we’re committed to ensuring that Journi is not just another online program but a transformational tool that schools can easily integrate into their curriculum.”
Member for Coomera Mr Michael Crandon was pleased one of his local schools was among the first to deliver the Journi program.
“There’s nothing more important than keeping kids safe,” Mr Crandon said. “I’m pleased Picnic Creek State School has already adopted the Journi program, and I’ll be encouraging other schools to do the same.”
Visit www.journi.au for more information.
