Australian Government Unveils National Level Crossing Safety Strategy

The Australian Government has unveiled the National Level Crossing Safety Strategy 2023–2032, marking a crucial step forward in enhancing rail safety across the nation. With level crossings remaining the highest public safety risk on the rail network, this strategy reaffrms the commitment to reducing fatalities and injuries in these areas.

Developed by the National Level Crossing Safety Committee, comprising representatives from federal, state, and local governments, as well as rail industry associations and regulators, the strategy outlines a comprehensive vision for achieving zero harm on the level crossing network. Key components of the strategy include:

• Improving public education and enforcement

• Harnessing emerging technology and innovation

• Identifying early, low-cost, and effective safety improvements

• Enhancing data and knowledge

• Increasing coordination and knowledge sharing among stakeholders responsible for safety. In response to the urgent need for action, a rail level crossing safety roundtable will be convened in Brisbane on March 6 to identify further measures that can be undertaken by governments, regulators, and industry stakeholders.

The Australian Government has already allocated $180 million for the Regional

Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, with $160 million earmarked over four years to support priority railway crossing upgrades. These upgrades include the installation of fashing lights, audible warning devices, boom barriers, enhanced signage, and pedestrian mazes to enhance visibility and safety.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, emphasized the importance of this strategy in saving lives and preventing injuries on the level crossing network. Minister King commended the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and expressed confdence that the strategy’s vision and practical actions will signifcantly improve rail safety over the next decade.

Echoing Minister King’s sentiments, Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, highlighted the signifcance of the strategy in enhancing safety on roads and railways. Minister Mellish underscored Queensland’s commitment to collaborative efforts with the federal government and other stakeholders to prioritize initiatives that save lives and drive real change in level crossing safety.

To access the strategy and learn more about the initiatives, visit the offcial website of the Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland.