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Feds spend $30.3m to fix dangerous level crossings

Federal Government announces $30 million in funding to upgrade 58 "high risk" level crossings in Victoria

The Federal Government will upgrade 58 level crossings throughout Victoria to reduce the number of fatalities from collisions between trains and road vehicles.

The $30.3 million investment stems from a model developed by the Brumby Government, which identified issues such as traffic volumes, crash history and visibility. All 58 sites are considered “high risk”.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese says the initiative is aimed at avoiding incidents at level crossing, which led to 28 collisions and nine fatalities in Victoria last year.

The investment has won the backing of industry groups, with the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) saying it will increase driver safety.

“The road is the workplace of every driver, so this funding initiative will make that workplace safer, ensuring that we continue to drive down road-related fatalities and serious injuries in Victoria,” VTA Deputy Chief Executive Neil Chambers says.

The Australian Trucking Association says it is a step in the right direction but more funding must be made available.

“We are looking forward to more announcements from the Australian Government on level crossing and road maintenance funding as it continues to roll out its Nation Building and Jobs Plan around the country,” ATA Chairman Trevor Martyn says.

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