The move is supported by wildlife rescuers, who confirmed the swan was put down because of its injuries.

City of Ballarat councillor Daniel Moloney said he will be calling on council to reduce the speed limit at the October 30 meeting, citing not just the safety of swans, but calls from runners and schools.

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Right now, there are sporadic permanent and school 40km/h zones around the lake, but a consistent speed limit would reduce confusion for drivers and increase safety, he said.

Allison Fink, a resident who helped with the injured swan on Sunday afternoon, said it was a hit and run - the swan was left with a fractured foot.

"People just aren't slowing down - it was a swan now, but what if it's a child next?" she said.

"There's too many swans getting hurt, it needs to be all 40km/h with speed bumps."

READ MORE: Lake Wendouree swans: rescuer's tips

That's echoed by wildlife rescuer Heather Lewis, who said there's been an increase this year in swan injuries and deaths, including numbers of swans being put down by vets.

Some are caused by the swans themselves, which are fiercely territorial, but many were caused by drivers not giving way to the swans.

She said there needs to be more warning signs and speed bumps around the lake to protect wildlife.

"The sad part is, people don't stop, they don't care, they don't let anybody know," she said.

Cr Moloney, who chairs the Lake Wendouree and Gardens Advisory Committee, said he hoped council would approve his proposal, which would then be taken to VicRoads.

"Swans are important but not the only reason," he said.

"We have had representations come into council, as well as through the committee, on the impact on swans and other birdlife, which has been significant.

"Almost at the same time, we received queries and letters from the athletics club were saying they'd like us to work with them to improve crossing points where cars go over the running track.

"Also from Loreto College, they're already in a 40 zone but have rowers that carry boats across to the lake."

Wendouree Parade was not designed as a thoroughfare and shouldn't be used as one, he said.

"I would like to see the lake promoted as a place of recreation and fitness," he said.

Anyone who sees an injured animal should phone 0417 380 687, however if dead wildlife are spotted, phone 5320 5500.

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