Dr Hafez Alavi is a passionate advocate for road safety and sustainable mobility, dedicated to shaping an inclusive future where every journey is safe and sustainable. With over 23 years of experience spanning public and private sectors, academia, and injury prevention research, he has played a pivotal role in advancing road safety strategies at both national and international levels.
Hafez was a key contributor to the Victorian Government’s Towards Zero Strategy, a landmark initiative aimed at eliminating serious road trauma. Among his leadership roles, he directed Victoria’s Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) $1.7 billion investment into road safety infrastructure—one of the largest commitments to road safety globally.
An enthusiastic trainer and communicator, Hafez regularly shares his expertise with professionals and the public through workshops, masterclasses, and keynote addresses. He is a sought-after speaker at national and international road and transport safety conferences, bringing deep knowledge and a systems-based approach to road safety challenges.
Hafez holds a PhD from the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), where his research focused on pedestrian safety and injury prevention.
His work continues to bridge research, policy, and practice to drive meaningful change in road safety and active travel.
What you’ll learn:
The critical role that speed plays in causing traffic crashes and their severity.
Why road safety should be integrated early into planning and policy
The human impacts behind road crash statistics
The importance of political accountability, cultural shifts, and public education in improving road safety.
Quotes:
"Speed is the most important factor in causing crashes and severe outcomes."
"Safety should become not the 11th-hour afterthought."
"A pedestrian in Australia is four times more likely to be killed compared to a Norwegian pedestrian."
"Safety should not be an add-on; it should be embedded in everything we do."
"Public education, culture, and political accountability are our biggest blockers—not technical solutions."
“Road safety isn't just about preventing deaths; it’s about preventing long-lasting trauma and its ripple effects."
"Safer environments mean more cohesive communities, healthier lifestyles, and stronger local economies."
Links:
Connect:
Connected with Hafez via Linkedin
Connect with Emily via email: emily@compassiot.com.au
Connect with Byte Size via LinkedIn
Connect with Compass IoT (the producer of this podcast) via our website
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