At Inferno Hair in Craigieburn, conversations are taking a different turn. Instead of the usual talk about work or weekend plans, salon owner May Samarasinghe is sparking discussions about seatbelts.
May is among a dozen hairdressers taking part in Cut, Colour, Click, a new Transport Accident Commission (TAC) campaign designed to encourage lifesaving conversations in salons and barbershops across Victoria.
As part of the initiative, participating stylists are equipped with conversation cards, factsheets, and even a salon cape printed with a seatbelt. The idea is simple: use everyday chats in the chair to remind people that buckling up can save lives.
The message comes at a crucial time. The first half of 2025 has been the deadliest on Victorian roads in more than a decade, with one in four of those who died in the past five years found not wearing a seatbelt.
For May, who migrated from Sri Lanka and has been running her salon for years, the decision to join the campaign was straightforward. “It was an easy yes,” she said. “Every day, I have the chance to speak to people. Why wouldn’t I use that time to pass on something important?”
What struck her most was learning about the dangers posed to back seat passengers. “I think what shocked everyone was the force, especially from the back seat passengers. We didn’t realise it could be that bad”.
The campaign slogan, Seatbelts Keep Us Together, resonates deeply with her. “It means keeping family and friends safe, and not losing anyone,” she said. “I’ve seen people who didn’t wear seatbelts in accidents, and some have lost their lives. It’s very sad to see”.
For May, being part of the TAC effort is about contributing to the community. “I just felt, as a citizen and as a community member, this is an opportunity to pass on the message”.
The TAC hopes that by enlisting trusted voices in everyday spaces, the message will land more effectively than roadside billboards or TV ads. For May, it’s a chance to make a difference one client at a time.
More information about the campaign can be found at www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/seatbeltstogether.
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