I rise to support this year's important Rail Safety Week.

Taking place this week of 8-14 August, the annual campaign seeks to build community awareness for safe rail practices.

Thank you to the Australasian Railway Association and the TrackSAFE Foundation for taking the lead on this cause. I would also like to extend thanks to the rail operators, police, government bodies, and community organisations that unite during this week to shed light on the pressing issue of rail safety.

Rail Safety Week hosts a number of informative events and activities, engaging schools and community groups, as well as reaching the general public.

In preventing further fatalities and injuries on the Australian rail network, this sort of awareness effort is crucial to the safety of our community.

The week is also very meaningful in minimising the work-related stresses our rail staff and recovery staff tend to experience due to the frequency of these incidents.

During this year's Rail Safety Week, TrackSAFE continues with its public campaign, 'Stand back. Look up. Stay Rail Safe': an extremely important message.

I congratulate everyone involved.