City of Perth to consider expanding the 40km/h speed zone across the CBD amid council safety push

Speed limits across Perth’s CBD could be cut to 40km/h under a plan from City of Perth staff who claim it will not significantly affect drivers’ travel time.

Councillors will this month vote on the plan to expand 40km/h zones throughout the CBD and key inner-city roads including Wellington Street, and Newcastle Street.

The preferred plan would also see Riverside Drive’s speed limit cut from 60km/h to 50km/h and Thomas Street’s 70km/h section cut to 60km/h.

If approved it would make most local roads within the council boundaries 40km/h zones, extending the current network west to the Mitchell Freeway and east to Hill Street.

It’s one of three options councillors will consider at their November 18 meeting.

Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the preferred plan was focused on improving safety while keeping the city moving efficiently.

“The goal isn’t to slow the city down — it’s to make it safer and more enjoyable for everyone who uses our streets,” Cr Reynolds said.

“Lower speed limits encourage more attentive, courteous and predictable driving, particularly in areas with high pedestrian, residential and cyclist activity. Even small reductions in speed can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of accidents.”

He described the approach as “balanced,” targeting lower limits in busy pedestrian areas and near alfresco dining spots while ensuring main routes remain efficient.

City officials believe travel times will barely change, as they suggest factors such as peak hour congestion and waiting at traffic lights will be far more influential on total travel times. However, they do not consider the effect on drivers travel times outside peak periods.

A City of Perth survey earlier this year received 590 responses, showing mixed opinions but majority support for slower speeds.

According to the council report, pedestrians and cyclists hit by cars travelling at 40km/h are twice as likely to survive as those struck at 50km/h.

Perth’s move follows a growing trend among nearby councils. Victoria Park, Subiaco, South Perth, and Vincent have all made lower-speed zones a 2025 priority, with Vincent’s trial from the city to Mt Hawthorn proving successful.

Stirling has already reduced speeds along West Coast Drive, while Melville has created a 20km/h shared zone in Mt Pleasant. Serpentine-Jarrahdale has also introduced major reductions on several roads.

The plan also aims to align speed limits with neighbouring councils, reducing “sign clutter” and confusion caused by frequent changes.

Councils such as Subiaco, Vincent, and Nedlands have expressed support, including for lowering Thomas Street’s 70km/h section to 60km/h and cutting Riverside Drive and Kings Park Road to 50km/h.

Some of those roads are shared boundaries between local government areas, meaning change needs support from both councils.

City of Perth staff say the preferred plan provides the best safety improvements and a simpler, more consistent driving experience.

“Perth is already a safe city, but we’re always looking to be safer,” Cr Reynolds said.

“Any reduction in speed that saves lives and could be the difference between someone walking out of hospital or not is something I will always approach with balance, care and leadership.”