VICSES urges Victorians to stay safe on the roads this holiday season

24/11/2025, 1:49 PM
VICSES volunteers were called to more than 2,200 road crash rescue incidents in 2024/25.

The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is urging motorists to take extra care on the roads this holiday season, with volunteers responding to a rising number of road crash rescue (RCR) incidents across the state this year.

VICSES provides the largest road rescue network in Australia, with 105 accredited Road Crash Rescue provider units across Victoria and 22 Rescue Support Units.

Last year, VICSES volunteers attended more than 2,200 road crash rescues across Victoria, providing critical support when people were trapped and needed emergency extrication. This has jumped from 1,859 incidents in the year prior.

Recent data highlights a continued upward trend in incidents across multiple regions, underscoring the importance of road-safety awareness and the vital role played by local VICSES volunteers.

These rising numbers continue to challenge emergency responders and highlight the shared responsibility we all have in staying alert and making safe choices on the road.

Fatigue is a major contributor to road trauma, contributing to an estimated 16–20% of all crashes in Victoria. Holiday travel often includes long distances, unfamiliar roads, and fatigue factors that and the potential for fatigue which can significantly increase crash risk. Ahead of the holiday period, VICSES volunteers are reminding all road users to:

  • Plan their trip, know your journey and conditions
  • Take a break at least every two hours
  • Share driving responsibilities where possible
  • Avoid driving late at night or when tired
  • Allow extra time for traffic and weather conditions. Always drive to the conditions.

As holiday traffic builds, VICSES  is calling on motorists to exercise additional caution when travelling over the coming months.

VICSES relies on dedicated volunteers who respond to emergencies 24/7, including storm damage, flood response, land search, and road-crash rescue. Community members are encouraged to consider joining their local unit, with comprehensive training and access to equipment provided.

Roles are flexible and include operational response, community engagement, communications, logistics, and support functions. No previous experience is required.

VICSES also offers structured post-incident support through wellbeing programs, a dedicated peer support initiative and confidential counselling services to assist volunteers in need of emotional or psychological assistance.

During long-weekend and holiday periods, VICSES activates Driver Reviver and TAC Pause Stop sites across Victoria to help reduce fatigue-related crashes. Volunteers offer free tea, coffee, and snacks, encouraging drivers to pause their journey and recharge before continuing.

To learn more about volunteering with VICSES, visit www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us.

Quotes attributable to Alistair Drayton, VICSES Chief Officer Operations

"Our volunteers see firsthand the devastating impact that fatigue, distraction, and poor decision-making can have on Victorian roads.’

“This holiday season, we’re urging everyone to slow down, stay alert, and look out for one another. A few extra minutes on your journey is always worth it to ensure you arrive safely."