School zone monitoring data has identified Leopard Street in Kangaroo Point as the leading location for speed compliance, with 1.66 million vehicle movements recorded within the posted school zone limit during the most recent reporting period.
The figures were captured as speed awareness monitors, known as SAMs, returned to operation around schools across Brisbane as students resumed classes. The monitors aim to influence driver behaviour by displaying speed feedback in active school zones rather than issuing penalties.
Kangaroo Point Performance
The Leopard Street result stands out among monitored locations, placing Kangaroo Point at the top of compliance outcomes during the reporting period. The data was collected between April and September last year, when traffic volumes were assessed across school-adjacent roads.
Over the same six months, more than 82 million vehicles were recorded citywide. Around half of drivers travelling above the speed limit reduced their speed after encountering monitoring signage.
Citywide Monitoring Context
Dedicated school zone SAMs were first introduced in 2021. There are now 100 units operating near schools, forming part of a broader network of 287 monitors across Brisbane.
Since “Slow for SAM” signage was introduced in 2013, more than 1.4 billion vehicles have passed monitored locations. The program reports an average speed reduction of 6.3 km/h across monitored roads.
The most significant speed improvement during the reporting period occurred on Frasers Road in Ashgrove, where average speeds dropped by 9 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. The highest recorded speed captured through monitoring was 187 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on Nudgee Road, Nundah.
Data collected through the program is not used for enforcement but contributes to road safety planning and driver awareness initiatives.
Broader School Safety Measures
Speed awareness monitoring operates alongside other school safety measures, including flashing signs, high-visibility road markings and targeted infrastructure upgrades.
Active travel programs are also continuing, with almost 17,000 students from 30 schools expected to participate in walking and riding initiatives in 2026. Safer School Precinct upgrades are planned or underway across several suburbs, focusing on pedestrian safety, traffic calming and improved connectivity around schools.
Outlook
Recent monitoring results place Kangaroo Point among the strongest performers for school zone speed compliance, as safety programs continue during the return to peak school travel periods.
Published 29-Jan-2026
