Applications open for Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund

State and territory governments are invited to apply for funding for new and upgraded railway crossings under the Australian Government’s Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund (RLCUF).

The Australian Government has committed $40 million annually over four years ($160 million total) for infrastructure projects under the RLCUF, to improve railway crossing safety in regional areas across the nation.

This funding will help make railway crossings safer by investing in safer protections such as making passive controls active (meaning drivers are actively warned of an approaching train), improving line markings, speed humps, speed reductions and increasing sight distances around railway crossings.

State and territory governments are encouraged to apply. Collaboration and co-funding from local government councils and private organisations are strongly encouraged.

Jurisdictions will be able to submit applications for consideration by 29 September 2023, with a second round of applications closing on 27 September 2024.

The funding is part of the broader Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, which is investing $180 million to deliver a holistic and coordinated approach to improving railway crossing safety.

The program is also investing in education and awareness activities to promote safe behaviours around railway crossings, improved data and risk assessments, and research and trials to promote the adoption of low-cost, innovative railway crossing safety solutions.

The number of deaths and serious injuries happening around these railway crossings, particularly in regional and rural communities is tragic. Upgrading level crossings is critical to help keep regional Australians safer. 

I strongly encourage all state and territory governments to apply. The RLCUF guidelines are available here.