Sixteen of the 59 level crossing upgrades funded in Victoria under the Rudd Labor Government’s Economic Stimulus Package have now been completed.

In just three months boom gates and flashing lights have been installed at sixteen high-risk level crossings across Victoria, with a further four projects likely to be completed by the end of the month.

I congratulate the Victorian Government for moving so quickly to put Federal stimulus money to work improving the safety of our road and rail networks.

Last year alone there were 28 collisions at level crossings in Victoria, nine resulting in fatalities and five involving serious injuries.

The investment is also supporting local jobs and local businesses during the current global recession.

The completed projects include:

The following projects are nearing completion:

Our $150 million Boom Gates for Rail Crossings Program will see boom gates and other safety measures installed at 292 high risk level crossings around the country.