Australia recorded an increase in road fatalities during 2025, with national figures reaching 1,332 deaths by November. New South Wales reported its highest annual road toll in eight years, totaling 355 fatalities, which represents an increase of 28 from the previous year. The NSW government attributed many of these incidents to relatively low levels of excess speed.
Queensland reported 306 deaths by the close of 2025, marking a 16-year high for the state. Victoria also saw an increase, with 288 road deaths. In contrast, Western Australia (181 deaths), South Australia (87 deaths), and the Northern Territory (38 deaths) each reported a reduction in fatalities compared to the preceding year. The Australian Capital Territory recorded nine deaths. In NSW, approximately two-thirds of road deaths (241) occurred in rural and regional areas, and cyclist fatalities increased from five to 15, including three e-bike riders.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jan/02/australia-2025-road-toll-deaths-fatalities-rise-nationwide