WA rail union pushes back on proposal for safety lights on trains
- A proposed law to require improved lighting on trains has sparked opposition from unions and industry groups, who argue the changes could create safety risks and operational complications.
- Critics say the legislation may interfere with established safety procedures and could place additional burdens on train drivers and rail operators without clear benefits.
- Supporters of the bill maintain it is intended to improve visibility and safety, but ongoing debate highlights tensions between regulatory changes and practical rail operations.
The state union for train drivers says a draft bill mandating more lights on trains is “fundamentally flawed” and would not fix motorists’ behaviour at level crossings.
Last week, the WA opposition introduced draft legislation to state parliament that would require regional trains to have flashing beacons, side lighting and more reflectors, which are not required under the current national act.
The bill would have a two-year implementation period so vehicles could be retrofitted, and largely target large agricultural and mining trains.
Both WA Labor and the opposition have said they would prefer a federal law change to maintain consistent rules across Australia, but WA Nationals leader Shane Love said change from any level was overdue.
Mr Love said the move would make passive level crossings, which rely on a stop or give way sign to warn motorists rather than a boom gate or lights, safer.
There are more than 20,000 level crossings in Australia and about 80 per cent are passive, prompting a national campaign to mandate more lighting to improve train visibility.
Motorists blamed
The WA Rail, Tram and Bus Union has pushed back against the proposed bill, saying it puts the onus on …
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Original article and photo by "ABC News"
