Free road trauma support a lifeline across the Kimberley

Those in the Kimberley affected by serious road crashes have a little extra help on hand locally this month.

Road Trauma Support WA’s recovery support lead Alyson Elari has been in Broome to raise awareness of free support services.

Road Safety Commission figures show between 2020 and 2024, the Kimberley recorded 925 crashes, with 17 per cent of those resulting in serious injury or death.

“Each community has its own challenges, and here in the Kimberley fatigue on long roads is a big issue,” Ms Elari said.

“But what really stands out is how connected people are. When there’s a crash, the whole town feels it.”

During her visit, Ms Elari met with local emergency services, including WA Police, St John WA, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, and Broome Hospital staff, to strengthen referral pathways and ensure people knew where to turn for help.

“Often first responders are best placed to recognise when someone’s struggling,” she said.

“If they know who we are, they can link people in before things become overwhelming.”

RTSWA is funded through the Road Trauma Trust Account and managed by the Road Safety Commission.

It offers free counselling, education, and resources for anyone directly or indirectly affected by road trauma, no matter if the crash occurred yesterday or decades ago.

Based in Perth, Ms Elari said about 75 per cent of clients accessed services by phone or video call, making support more accessible to regional and remote residents.

“That shift since COVID has meant people in places like Broome, Derby or Kununurra can still connect with us easily,” she said.

“There’s no referral needed, and no limit on the number of sessions.

“If you’ve been impacted by road trauma, whether it was yesterday or 20 years ago — reach out.

“You don’t have to go through it alone.”

For free, confidential support, call 1300 004 814 or visit injurymatters.org.au.