The Australian Road Safety Federation wants people to slap a life-sized sticker of a child to their wheelie bins.

The stickers depict children stepping into the road as well as speed limit signs reminding motorists how fast they can legally drive.

The federation’s CEO Russell White said the images were based on research which found signs depicting motion resulted in faster reaction times and increased vigilance among would-be drivers, which could ultimately lead to faster stopping times.

“Between January and May this year 67 pedestrians were killed on Australian roads. If trends continue the number could reach or even exceed last year’s number of 165,” he said.

“Drivers need to be sent a reminder that is visual and available to them when they are on the road.

“If someone is exceeding the speed limit, we hope these stickers will prompt them to immediately slow down. Even small changes in vehicle speed can have a dramatic impact on stopping distances.”

Mr White said of the 67 pedestrians killed so far this year, seven were under 16 years of age.

“We also know that the statistics show fatalities are higher on week days,” he said.

“Victoria has recorded the second highest pedestrian fatality rate so far in 2016, accounting for over 25 per cent of deaths.

“These are just the fatality rates. There have been many more injured and even left (people) with life changing disabilities.

“Our research tells us that for every fatality, there is between 20 and 30 injuries. With the impact on families and friends, that’s thousands of lives shattered every year.”

The Australian Road Safety Foundation launched the initiative in Queensland earlier this year as an education program. The stickers cost $10 each, plus postage.

Residents interested in purchasing a sticker for their bin can contact the ARSF hotline on 1300 723 843 or email info@australianroadsafetyfoundation.com