What is a Shared Zone?

Here is a recent question  from one of our customers in NSW:

Our caravan park recently had a safety audit and we were told we needed signage to identify "shared zones". What is the definition of a shared zone and what do I need to do about it?

Our Safety Guru's Answer: 

The official definition of a Shared Zone states - 

A shared zone is a implementation of a living street in Australia and New Zealand, where pedestrians, cyclists and motorised traffic share the same road space. Special rules and speed limits apply for shared zones.

• Motorists and cyclists must give way (yield) to pedestrians at all times throughout the entire zone, regardless of traffic signals, pedestrian crossing signals or other considerations.
• The typical speed limit of shared zones is 10 km/h (5 mph).
• Typically Shared Zone signs are made from Class 1 reflective material to make them easily visible during the day and night.

 

• Common examples of Shared Zone areas are shopping center car parks, camping and caravan parks, unit blocks, office car parks, hospital and school drop off zones.

Here are some helpful links for more details -

VicRoads
Qld Department of Transport
Roads and Traffic Authority (NSW)
Speed limits in Australia