As part of Rural Road Safety Month, the Minns Labor Government is pleased to unveil a major update to its Speed Adviser App.
Speed Adviser is a mobile application which helps motorists to manage their speed and encourages safer behaviours on our roads by giving audible and visual warnings when a vehicle exceeds the speed limit or enters a mobile speed camera zone and when a school zone is active and provides accurate speed zone information across the entire NSW road network.
This new feature, which was soft launched earlier this year, aims to bolster safety at over 1,300 public road level crossings across New South Wales. The update introduces visual and audio alerts to notify drivers as they approach these level crossings.
Particularly beneficial for motorists in regional NSW-where most level crossings are situated and are a regular part of many people's commutes-the updated app now provides timely warnings with the message "Caution, rail crossing ahead."
These alerts encourage drivers to reduce speed and stay vigilant, ensuring they are prepared for these crucial crossings.
Speeding is a major contributor to deaths on our roads and this app helps people know the speed limits.
Between July 2014 and June 2024, there were 64 collisions between trains and road vehicles at level crossings in NSW, resulting in 8 fatalities and 9 serious injuries.
To address this issue and enhance safety, the NSW Government is employing a multi-faceted approach, including educational initiatives, strategic infrastructure investments, and advanced technology.
As part of these efforts, in August 2024, the NSW Government has announced a $1.2 million trial of the Rail Active Crossing Systems (RAXS) at Callaghans Level Crossing near Quirindi. This trial aims to upgrade a passive crossing to an active site equipped with flashing lights and bells, providing motorists with clearer warnings and reducing the risk of crashes.
Coinciding with its 10th anniversary, the updated Speed Adviser App has been downloaded 120,000 times since its launch a decade ago and remains a vital tool for promoting road safety across NSW.
The Speed Adviser app is available on Apple and Android devices. For more information about the Speed Adviser App, visit https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/speeding/speedadviser/about.html.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"I want to take this opportunity during Rural Road Safety Month to remind motorists in our regions to be extra cautious on our roads.
"A fatal collision can happen in just seconds. It's important for all of us to work together and drive responsibly, especially around level crossings, to prevent tragic crashes and ensure everyone returns home safely.
"I'm pleased to see the new feature added to the Speed Adviser App. The data is also available on the Transport Open Data Hub which can feed into popular apps such as Apple Maps, Google Maps and Navman.
"While it's a valuable tool for drivers, it's important to remember it doesn't replace the need for constant vigilance.
"Level crossing signs, flashing lights, boom gates, and road markings are there for a reason. Drivers, riders, and pedestrians must stay alert and follow the rules to keep themselves and everyone safe."
