Victorian train derails, starts grassfire

A freight train has derailed in regional Victoria with nearly 20 people evacuated from a passenger service travelling in the opposite direction.

The incident happened shortly before 6pm on Wednesday in Barnawartha, near the NSW border.

It is believed the freight train decoupled from the tracks before crashing into the passenger train.

About 30 carriages from the freight train derailed, starting a grassfire that is not yet under control.

Police said investigations will be carried by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

Emergency services confirmed three units were attending the scene.

Ambulance Victoria said paramedics treated 19 patients, with no reports of injuries.

The Hume Freeway was temporarily closed following the incident. The northbound left lane of the road is currently blocked.

The passenger train was a V/Line service travelling from Albury to Southern Cross Station in Melbourne.

Commuters travelling on the affected line have been encouraged to look for alternative routes, with coaches replacing train services between Chiltern and Melbourne.