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Government Analytics

Australia allocates A$61m for smart roads

By Adrienne Valdez | 23 May 2011

The Federal Government released the 2011-12 budget allocation, providing $61.4 million to state governments over the next three years to fund smart road infrastructure aimed at cutting travel time and greenhouse gas emissions.

Four motorways have been identified by federal planning body Infrastructure Australia for feasibility studies and smart technology trials, including the M1 West Gate Freeway in Victoria, the M4 Western Motorway in Sydney, the Gateway Motorway in Queensland and a motorway in Western Australia.

The funding is to be spent on a new intelligent transport system, ramp metering and signalling, managed motorway systems and freight prioritisation, as well as travel time and variable message signs.

According to the budget papers, “Managed motorways use system control through integrating data collection sensors and control tools to improve real-time management of motorways to secure a higher and more consistent level of motorway performance. This results in travel time savings, improved reliability and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.”

Queensland Motorways has already implemented intelligent traffic monitoring systems, featuring laser tagging of vehicles, free-flow tolling and camera-based monitoring. Queensland also currently plays host to the Queensland University of Technology’s joint venture with IBM to tackle the state’s pain points on the road.

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