Leader of the Opposition and Federal Member for Maribyrnong Bill Shorten today visited St Albans Railway Crossing to reiterate his strong support for the dangerous crossing to be upgraded.

Mr Shorten was joined by Victorian Shadow Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan, state representatives Cesear Melhem and Kahil Eideh as well as local traders.

“The people of St Albans have put up with this situation for too long, and tragically, 16 people have lost their lives,” Mr Shorten said.

“After visiting the railway crossing in February with former Transport Minister Anthony Albanese we announced Federal Labor’s $90 million commitment to an upgrade of Main Road St Albans.”

“Unfortunately our offer of assistance was declined by the Napthine Government who have committed less than 10 per cent of the funds needed for this necessary upgrade.”

In contrast to the Napthine Government’s inaction, Daniel Andrews and Victorian Labor have, as a part of their Project 10,000 transport plan, committed to removing 50 of Victoria’s worst level crossing.

“I stand here today with members of Victorian Labor’s team unified in our support for an upgrade at Main Road St Albans.”

“This is an important step to improve safety, create a more efficient transport network and enhance local economic viability by improving access to local businesses,” Mr Shorten said.

“What stands in the way of this upgrade, and others like it across Victoria, is the continued opposition and inaction by Tony Abbott and Denis Napthine”

For further information on Victorian Labor’s Transport plan visit www.project10000.com.au

ENDS

Contact: Kieran Barns-Jenkins 9326 1300 / 0421 838 878

                                [email protected]