If you organise events in Western Australia, from community festivals and fun runs to sporting events and parades, Main Roads WA (MRWA) has released two new resources that are worth reviewing.
Main Roads WA has released two new resources relating to Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) for Events on or affecting State Roads in Western Australia. These documents provide clearer guidance for event organisers, traffic management providers, and Event Traffic Controllers (ETCs) involved in planning and delivering events safely and compliantly.
The new resources include:
- A Fact Sheet outlining key requirements, responsibilities, approvals, and cost considerations
- A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document addressing common industry questions and scenarios
Why These Resources Matter
Traffic management is considered a high-risk activity, and unsafe practices can place workers, participants, spectators, and road users at risk.
These new MRWA resources aim to simplify some of the common questions event organisers face, while reinforcing the importance of planning safe and compliant traffic management arrangements.
Key Takeaways from the New Resources
1. When a Registered Traffic Management Company Is Required
The Fact Sheet explains that a registered traffic management company is generally required if your event:
- Involves lane or road closures
- Requires temporary speed reductions
- Uses Stop/Slow or manual traffic control
- Includes detours, complex intersections, or multiple closure points
- Affects a State road in any way
If your event only requires standard “EVENT AHEAD” signage and no speed reductions or closures are involved, a registered company may not be required.
2. Clarification Around Event Traffic Controllers (ETC)
The documents also provide clearer guidance on the role and limitations of ETC-accredited personnel.
- ETC accreditation is generally suitable for lower-speed, low-complexity environments
- ETC-accredited personnel cannot perform Stop/Slow operations on State roads
- Volunteers may assist with low-risk activities such as spectator guidance or car park management
3. TMPs and Approval Timeframes
The resources reinforce that TMPs are likely required where events involve:
- Road closures or lane restrictions
- Temporary speed reductions
- Significant pedestrian interaction
- Public transport or emergency service impacts
Importantly, Category 1 road closures require at least six months’ notice to WA Police, and MRWA recommends engaging early for event guidance.
4. Better Understanding of Costs and Planning
The Fact Sheet also outlines factors that can influence traffic management costs, including:
- Event duration and complexity
- Number of traffic controllers required
- Speed environment and road classification
- After-hours work and traffic volumes
- Signage, barriers, and relief staff requirements
This helps organisers better understand why early planning and engagement are important.
Access the New MRWA Resources
To explore the full documents:
Don’t miss important industry updates like these – explore our Latest News page for the latest traffic management resources, compliance updates, and training information relevant to WA worksites and events.
