An evaluation of the ‘Smiley Face’ road sign trial has found the signs have been successful in slowing down drivers on Canberra’s roads. The trial of Smiley Face road signs that aims to reduce speeding by reinforcing positive driver behaviour ran from February 2018 until October 2019. Five signs were rotated around different residential locations in the ACT, including both school and non-school zones and on streets of different speed limits and road classifications.
Minister for Justice, Consumer Affairs and Road Safety Shane Rattenbury MLA said he is pleased the signs have been a success in encouraging ACT drivers to be more aware of their travelling speed.




“The signs display a smiley face to the driver when they are travelling at or below the speed limit. This positive approach to road safety has helped residential streets be safer by reminding people to slow down.” Minister Rattenbury commented “Speeding remains a significant road safety issue in the ACT, and the Government is committed to ensuring the Canberra community has the safest possible road environment. The evaluation found the use of the signs reduced speeds and decreased the number of motorists travelling over the speed limit at each site they were placed. Speed reductions of up to 12km/h were reported in the evaluation. Given the success of the signs, I am pleased to commit further funding to expand this project by providing an additional sign, and footings at two further sites.”
The Minister pointed out that the Justice and Community Safety Directorate will also soon develop a community awareness campaign focusing on safe speeds, to support the existing speed reduction initiatives. The trial was funded by a $40,000 Road Safety Community Grant, with additional funding provided by Transport Canberra and City Services.