$98 million for level crossings in eastern states

Tragically, about 100 accidents occur at rail crossings every year. During 2007/08 alone, there were seven level crossing collisions in New South Wales, with one resulting in a fatality. Last year, there were 18 collisions, 5 fatalities and 4 serious injuries at level crossings in Queensland.

The Government said in a statement that not only will these investments improve road safety but also support local jobs and local businesses during the current global recession.

Never before has the Federal Government had a program dedicated to improving safety and preventing accidents at level crossings, the statement said.

Nationally, the Boom Gates for Rail Crossings Program will provide $50 million in 2008/09 and a further $100 million in 2009/10 for the installation of boom gates and other safety measures at more than 200 level crossings.

The projects announced were identified by the New South Wales and South Australian Governments using a model that takes into account factors such as road and rail traffic volumes, crash history, visibility for motorists and train drivers, the number of rail tracks at the crossing and other public risks. The Government in Queensland used a model which weighed the length of track through the State against the number of crashes.

The new boom gates and other safety measures are part of a $26.4 billion Nation Building Program which will deliver and maintain vital road and rail infrastructure in every region of Australia. Of this funding, $7.6 billion will be invested in New South Wales; $1.7 billion invested in South Australia; and $6.5 billion invested in Queensland.

To view details of the approved projects click here.