How Road Traffic Management Has Changed in Australia Since the Turn of the Century

We like to think that our roads are as safe as they come here in Australia, yet such a large country has a huge network of major and minor roads and while traffic management is not required in remote areas, cities and towns do need to be managed properly.

Sydney traffic management

You may have noticed special cameras on street lighting pole columns that are actually able to read a vehicle registration plate, such is the resolution. These cameras can also register the speed of a vehicle and they have been very successful as a speeding deterrent; the plan is to add cameras in a structured way, with special facial recognition systems that can track citizens.

Traffic light systems

AI manages central city traffic grids in Sydney, Melbourne and other major cities, with intersection communication across the city, which allows backed up traffic longer green lights. Real-time traffic management is now fully automated, which means the police have a lot of resources to dedicate to pursuing criminals. Rush hour traffic has vastly improved since AI took over; real-time camera data is analysed and the right action is taken quickly; Patrols and emergency services can be alerted in super quick time, which saves lives.

Luminous roads

Cats eyes have long been used to assist drivers on major roads; yet there are other technologies, such as tiny LED lights fitted along the centre line and they take energy from the sun that powers them through the darkness hours. Solar energy is a game-changer when it comes to street illumination and several ideas are already being investigated. If you work from home and you are lacking in motivation, click here.

Cycle lanes

All cities have cycle lanes, which provide a safe route for all cyclists and these are clearly marked and there are fines issued for motorists that enter the cycle lane, except in emergencies.

Speed traps

A contentious subject with many Aussie motorists who claim that hidden speed traps are unfair. The federal government seem to be leaning towards tyranny, bringing out new laws that eat away at the population’s rights. Either way, Australian motorists are monitored 24/7 and accidents numbers are falling and that motivates the authorities forward.

Lack of police visibility

Many citizens have noticed that the police are not as visible on the streets as they once were, yet this does not mean they aren’t monitoring activity; it is done via hi-tech cameras, a person or vehicle can be tracked from any location to any location.

Safer roads

This is the goal of the federal government and they are making progress, with accidents and fatalities falling and while some citizens are unhappy with the increased level of traffic monitoring. Each state has its own agenda regarding how to reduce road traffic accidents and they are monitored by the federal government.

Australian roads have never been safer and the future looks rosy thanks to emerging digital technology.

 See more of my automotive posts here

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.