Australian Level Crossing Assessment Model (ALCAM)

ALCAM was developed in Queensland in 1996 and was adopted throughout Australia in 2003.  A project was undertaken to assess ALCAM and consider its use in New Zealand.  The objectives of the project were to:

• Estimate costs of collecting data and applying identified remedial action
• Identify, analyse and propose possible funding mechanisms
• Consider effects of rail safety targets and other factors on intervention levels
• Recommend whether ALCAM should be adopted and if so, how it might be administered.

In April 2005, the working group reported back on differences between New Zealand and Australian requirements, and identified some changes to ALCAM for New Zealand conditions.  Funding was made available for a nationwide survey of level crossings, which started in Auckland, and is now continuing in teh Waikato and Bay of Plenty.  Both ONTRACK and Land Transport New Zealand have officers trained in the ALCAM methodology.  

The surveys are managed by ONTRACK, with a team of one each from ONTRACK and Land Transport New Zealand, accompanied by one or more people from the relevant RCA.  The surveys are expected to be completed within three years, on the basis of 2 - 4 crossings surveyed each day.  With the recommendations being available promptly, minor issues can be easily addressed, but significant needs may require more time and analysis.  ONTRACK manages the database in conjunction with Land Transport New Zealand. Updates are included in the regular reports to the RCA Forum.

Contact Bill Horne for further information: bill.horne@rodney.govt.nz

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