The New South Wales government is shelling out for a boost to school safety, with a $13 million spend on installing and upgrading flashing safety lights.

Premier Barry O’Farrell announced the funding this week, claiming it’s the most effective way of getting drivers to slow down in school zones.

"Our children are our most vulnerable and inexperienced road users," Mr O’Farrell said in a statement.  

It seems to NSW government got a good deal on the new lights, they cost just $8400 a set, down from a previous price of $25,000. Roads Minister Duncan Gay said they would be in 1263 schools by the end of the month, with a further 1500 of the state’s 3150 schools lit up by 2015.

It’s particularly welcome news for flashing lights advocate Peter Olsen, who had 70 lights personally installed in frustration with the government.