Canberrans are asked to “stand back, look up, and stay rail safe” while on or around the light rail corridor this Rail Safety Week, which begins today.

Rail Safety Week (Monday 7 August to Sunday 13 August) is an annual community awareness week held in Australia and New Zealand.

“Rail Safety Week is an important annual reminder for all Canberrans to stay alert and limit their distractions when crossing the tracks or using light rail,” said Chris Steel, ACT Minister for Transport and City Services.

Since light rail started operating in 2019, it has been used more than 13 million times, and the ACT Government is constructing the next stage (Civic to Commonwealth Park, and ultimately to Woden).

“It’s important we don’t forget our personal responsibilities for ensuring the safety of ourselves and others when you’re around the tracks. 

“This means staying behind the yellow line while waiting on light rail platforms; stopping to look both ways before you cross light rail tracks; and paying attention when on the corridor by putting away phones and taking off headphones.” 

To mark the beginning of Rail Safety Week, Mr Steel unveiled four new light rail safety wraps designed by local students Caroline Austin and Jose Arbelaez from Dickson College, Chaerin Hwang from Gungahlin College, and Amelie Lawless from Merici College.

“The designs each provide a unique and colourful interpretation of light rail safety messaging,” Mr Steel said. “They will be on two of our light rail vehicles for the next year, and are a great example of the emerging talent in our local schools.”

Canberrans can vote for their favourite design from 32 shortlisted submissions. Student posters will be displayed onboard two light rail vehicles with QR codes the public can scan to vote for their favourite design.

For more information about Rail Safety Week, visit www.transport.act.gov.au.