New research that has modelled the use of exciting new data sources and technology such as AI and machine learning (ML) to make Australian road networks safer and more efficient will be on the agenda at ITS Australia’s Roads, Tolling and Technology Conference, taking place in Brisbane from March 20-21.
Researchers from the University of Melbourne have partnered with state transport agencies on the world leading project that investigates the potential of new data and technology to revolutionise traffic management operations for the better.
“Collaboration of this kind, between one of Australia’s leading universities and transport agencies from our four largest states is game changing and offers an opportunity to transform the way we manage the nation’s roads,” says ITS Australia CEO Susan Harris.
“Australia has led the way with revolutionary technology such as the Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS), Managed Motorways and interoperability tolling. This research paves the way for the next wave of enhancements to our transport networks, by leveraging technology and never before available data sources.”
In the latest stage of the project, researchers used large sources of data provided by partners and modeled outcomes, including an occupancy-based public transport priority control that gives at or near-capacity buses and trams greater priority and models the impact for all road users.
Another modeled outcome to be presented at the conference involved leveraging signal data, video camera, and vehicle generated data to reconstruct the journey of vehicles without connected technology for signal optimisation.
Leaders from Australia’s road and toll operations sector will join government decision-makers and technology providers in Brisbane to strategise how to integrate the latest tech solution into all aspects of road and transport operations across the country.
As Brisbane prepares its road networks to be ready for an influx of global visitors for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympics Games, it is an appropriate destination to hear not only how the State Government is preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime event but also how the ITS industry is contributing to crucial infrastructure and technology projects.
As the conference explores the great opportunities to harness the benefits of new data, experts will also consider the imperative to maintain community confidence that collected data remains anonymous and is used appropriately.
Expert speakers with deep experience in both the transport sector and data analytics will offer ideas and solutions that will activate and enhance data sharing amongst industry partners and government agencies while upholding community expectations around data privacy.
The conference will also look at the future of tolling technology in Australia, with experts delving into the critical future technology challenges and opportunities in operating and managing motorway tolling systems and how best industry and government can work together to enhance the future of tolling technology in Australia.
“We know the importance of government and industry working collaboratively to leverage technology and deliver better road networks and infrastructure for the community,” says Harris. “Roads, Tolling and Technology facilitates these important conversations between the government responsible for instigating new road projects and the technology providers and network operators that deliver them.”
Other significant topics to be explored over two days include innovation in roadworks and traffic management; road user charging experiences and opportunities; technological enhancements in the freight sector; safety, resilience and sustainability on our roads, and future vehicles.
The speaking line-up includes a range of government decision-makers from Australia’s largest transport agencies in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland who will provide important updates on significant road projects in each state.
Industry leaders from some of the biggest road and tolling operators and technology providers will also share crucial insights over the two days. Companies including Transurban, Kapsch TrafficCom Australia, SICE, Cubic Transportation Systems, Vitronic, NEC, Q-Free Australia, Amazon Web Services, Yunex Traffic, and Sage Automation will be represented in the packed program.
