Ms THEOPHANOUS (Northcote): My adjournment matter is to the Minister for Public Transport.
The action that I seek is that the minister arrange a briefing between myself and senior members of the Department of Transport regarding the regulations underpinning train horn noise levels.
Speaker, the electorate of Northcote is fortunate to be serviced by two train lines—the Hurstbridge and the Mernda. They are a fundamental part of our suburbs and in many ways have shaped our way of life in the inner north, connecting us to work, study and recreation.
And an incredible transformation of our train network is currently underway. Labor is planning for the future of our suburbs —we’re building big, modernising our networks and changing the way we move around.
The Mernda line has been extended and the Hurstbridge line has been duplicated to cater to more passengers. The Metro Tunnel will take pressure off the city loop so more trains can run to and from our suburbs. And of course our level crossing removals are unlocking open space and creating faster, safer journeys for everyone.
We’ve seen the immense difference this has made at Grange Road in Alphington. As we speak, there are another four set to be removed in Preston as we raise the rail over Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road.
As we continue to upgrade our train lines and remove level crossings, we are not only making our roads and rail lines safer, but also requiring train horns to be used less.
It’s perhaps one of the less advertised advantages of separating our rail from our roads—but one which resonates deeply with many in my community who live in very close proximity to the rail lines.
The truth is these lines were constructed over a hundred years ago when our city and our lives looked very different. Back then, trains did not run so often. Far less people lived in our suburbs. We did not have a night network as we do now. And far fewer people worked from home.
I speak to many residents living close to the rail line who experience these horns on a daily basis. These are families and individuals who are supporters of our public transport networks—and chose to live close to these lines for all of the benefits they bestow.
And residents of course appreciate that train horns are a key element in maintaining safety, particularly at level crossings. They know the horns serve to warn pedestrians and motorists of approaching trains, particularly people with vision or hearing impairments, and at night when people may not expect train services to be running.
However, in more recent times, I have heard reports that the volume and frequency of the horns has been increasing. The recurrent disruption can have a real impact on people’s health, their sleep, their work and of course the peaceful enjoyment of their homes.
Residents simply want to be certain that this noise remains within the regulated parameters, and to explore whether any operational adjustments can be made to limit the noise emissions without compromising safety on the line.
To this end, I would appreciate an in-depth briefing from your department in respect of these matters.
