Improving regional railway crossing safety

The Australian Government has today launched a national advertising campaign as part of its commitment to improve safety around regional railway crossings. 

The campaign reminds drivers of the risks around regional railway crossings and raises awareness of the importance of being cautious, emphasising the message to ‘Slow down. Look. Listen for trains.’ 

The campaign forms part of our Government’s $180.1 million Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, to improve safety around railway crossings in regional areas, which includes $160 million to support lower-cost, high-priority railway crossing upgrades, and $4.7 million for two grants rounds to support research and trials of low-cost, innovative level crossing safety technology and improvements.

The campaign also builds on the Government’s commitment to the goal of zero harm at level crossings and complements other important initiatives such as the implementation of a train illumination Code of Practice and the independent review of the Rail Safety National Law. 

This work aligns with the objectives of the National Level Crossing Safety Strategy 2023–32, a collaborative initiative of the Australian, state and territory governments. 

Together, we can improve our regional railway crossing safety, to drive down the devastating impact collisions have for those involved, their families, and communities. 

The campaign will appear on regional TV, radio, outdoor advertising such as billboards, digital audio including podcast and music streaming platforms, First Nations publications and social platforms. It will be running until 30 June.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King: 

“Rail travel is critical for so many of our regional communities – to connect them with their loved ones, jobs and opportunities. 

“The Albanese Government is committed to improving rail safety and productivity, which is why we’re investing to upgrade rail infrastructure and launching this campaign to educate locals and visitors around the importance of regional railway crossing safety.” 

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown: 

“Rail safety is like road safety: it is everyone’s responsibility to play their part to ensure we all stay safe. 

“Our rail industry is a crucial part of the Australian economy, and it intersects with our road network, meaning drivers need to be aware and attentive. 

“This national advertising campaign will complement the government's commitment to a National Road Safety Awareness campaign and our goal of Vision Zero - zero fatalities and serious injuries on our roads."