The TAC senior road safety manager Samantha Cockfield said the timing of the Stawell Gift coincided with a major road safety push over the Easter long weekend. 

“Easter is a time when Victorians love to get out and about and the TAC’s involvement in the Stawell Gift helps us get the road safety message out to thousands of people at the event and hundreds of thousands watching on television,” she said.

“It is important that we are always looking at new ways to remind Victorians that they are at the heart of our Towards Zero vision and that they have a personal role to play.”

Minister for Sport John Eren said he welcomed the announcement. 

"It is great to have the TAC on board for this iconic event,” he said.  

"The Stawell Gift brings tourists to regional Victoria, create jobs and keeps our economy strong and local businesses busy.

"It inspires the next generation of aspiring athletes to join clubs and get involved in athletics.”

The Stawell Gift will also be supported by major partners Australia Post, Cadbury, CUB, Telstra and the state government.