December 2023

Hello and welcome to the December 2023 edition of the Temporary Traffic Management newsletter. 

As this is our final newsletter for 2023, it has prompted some reflection on the year that was. I would like to express my thanks for the commitment and collaborative spirit that has defined our 2023 journey. Our collective efforts on various projects have been instrumental in making our roads safer. These projects include the introduction of new mandatory standards for all event traffic management, the release of TMR's new training course 'Cyclist and pedestrian safety at roadworks,' and the implementation of new rules for identification and branding of traffic control vehicles and signage at roadworks sites. Social media campaigns aimed at supporting roadworks and roadworker safety have also had a significant impact in terms of raising awareness and building knowledge. Importantly, industry consultation and feedback regarding the national training framework for temporary traffic management has been a critical body of work and will continue to be so into the new year.

TMR also joined the Traffic Management Association of Australia as an Associate Group member last month. This helps to cement the close collaboration we share in promoting best practice management and common safety goals.

It was a very full agenda in 2023 and the year has been testament to the power of teamwork and shared dedication. We look forward to continuing our vital work together.  

I wish you all a very happy and safe festive season, and see you in the new year.

Ken Jacobs

A/Chief Engineer
Engineering and Technology
Department of Transport and Main Roads

As part of TMR's commitment to ensuring roadworker safety, the Traffic Engineering team recently completed a state-wide audit of registered training organisations (RTO) currently active in the delivery of training for temporary traffic management workers.

The audit program ensures all trainees are receiving a consistent level of training and have the knowledge to perform their job. The process also encourages continuous improvement, the chance to develop and adapt training material, and to ensure communication is tailored to support the industry. 

The program is designed to confirm that RTOs are complying with the TMR Licence Agreements to deliver the Traffic Controller, Traffic Management Implementation and Traffic Management Design training programs. An initial desktop audit is conducted, followed by on-site audits resulting in a final report identifying any areas of concern. Action plans to address non-compliance are managed between TMR and the RTO until resolution is reached.

Other than ensuring a regulated and compliant industry, the audit also presents an excellent opportunity for TMR to speak directly with our RTOs and share feedback and challenges. 

The program will continue in 2024. For any queries please email ttmsauditteam@tmr.qld.gov.au

As part of the November publication cycle, the following temporary traffic management technical documents have had amendments applied: 

• MUTCD Part 3
• QGTTM Parts 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8
• MRTS02

TMR collaborates closely with Austroads on projects such as the Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic Management(AGTTM) and the National Harmonisation of TemporaryTraffic Management. In addition to all things TTM, Austroads plays a strong role in developing and applying national standards to improve transport outcomes across a range of other programs. For further insights into the extent of their work, you can explore their 2022-23 Annual Report