The Parliament of Fiji has successfully passed the Land Transport (Amendment) Bill 2025, with a focus on enhancing road safety and reducing traffic-related fatalities in the country. Minister of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, conveyed the government’s unwavering commitment to improving safety on the roads, especially for new drivers.
Tuisawau stated, “These amendments are important to reducing traffic-related fatalities and fostering responsible driving behavior across Fiji.” The changes introduced by the Bill aim to promote a culture of accountability among drivers and establish stricter measures for those who violate traffic laws.
Notably, the Bill incorporates a structured framework for provisional licenses, which targets novice drivers. Previous statistics indicated that around 20 percent of road fatalities in 2024 involved provisional license holders engaging in reckless behavior, such as speeding. Under the new amendments, provisional drivers who breach traffic regulations will face extended provisional periods and may risk losing their licenses if they accumulate multiple offenses.
In addition to these requirements, there has been an emphasis on mandatory night driving training in driving school curricula to better equip new drivers for nighttime challenges. The Minister underscores that while passing driving tests is essential, cultivating responsible driving habits remains a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.
This legislative initiative comes at a time when Fiji’s road safety statistics show a decline in fatalities; there were 54 reported deaths in 2024 compared to 78 in 2023. The government intends to significantly lower these numbers through a combination of education, enforcement, and ongoing commitment to responsible driving practices.
The introduction of the Land Transport (Amendment) Bill 2025 is a hopeful step toward fostering safer driving environments across Fiji. By enhancing driver education and implementing stricter penalties for traffic violations, the government aims to create a culture of safety that ultimately leads to a substantial reduction in road accidents and enhances the quality of life for all road users.
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