Public transport minister Terry Mulder said the technology would warn drivers of approaching trains at a crossing, using flashing lights and an emergency train horn sound.

The system delivers six levels of warning, graduating in urgency and volume.

The Swan Hill line level crossing at Dingee and two Frankston line crossings will participate in the $5.5 million trial.

Mr Mulder said technology had the potential to significantly reduce accidents at railway level crossings, but urged people to remain vigilant around trains and trams.

“Collisions between cars and trains have devastating consequences,” he said.

“The Coalition government is committed to doing everything it can to improve safety at level crossings and eliminate the senseless loss of lives and suffering these collisions cause.

“(But) all of the warnings in the world will not prevent an accident if crossing users are inattentive or careless of the risks.”

Mr Mulder said the state government had provided $1.2 million towards the three-year project.

Preliminary results found by La Trobe University’s Centre for Technology Infusion exceeded expectations.

The centre’s director Jack Singh said the benefits of the technology extended well beyond improving level crossing safety.

“Collision warning systems including Co-operative Intelligent Transport Systems technology have been hailed by the motor vehicle industry as the next area of major road safety innovation, following in the footsteps of seat belts, airbags and ABS systems to save lives on the roads,” he said.

Professor Singh said the technology was expected to be available in new cars by 2014.

Automotive Co-operative Research Centre chief Matthew Cuthbertson said the technology promised significant safety benefits for transport in Australia.