Main Roads WA has released proposed updates to the Traffic Management Company Registration Scheme, aimed at simplifying pay structures, improving clarity, and aligning with broader industry standards.
These changes are currently under consultation and, if implemented, are expected to take effect from 1 July 2026.
If you’re involved in traffic management operations, workforce planning, or compliance, understanding these proposed changes early can help you prepare your business and workforce ahead of time.
What This Means for the Traffic Management Industry
The Registration Scheme plays a key role in ensuring that traffic management companies operating on State Roads meet requirements around safety, capability, and employment conditions.
Following recent reviews, audits, and industry discussions, Main Roads WA is now seeking feedback on a number of proposed changes before final decisions are made.
Key Changes Summary
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the proposed changes:
- Simplified Pay Classification Structure
- Reduction from six pay categories to three
- Removal of lower classifications and merging of higher ones
- No longer requires tracking worker experience for pay classification
- Focus shifts to qualifications aligned with role requirements
- Annual Wage Increases (AWR Alignment)
- Pay rates will increase annually in line with the Fair Work Commission’s Annual Wage Review (AWR)
- Applies to all classifications moving forward
- Provides more predictable cost planning for employers
- Shift from Qualification-Based to Role-Based Pay
- Workers will be paid based on the role they perform, not the highest qualification they hold
- Aligns with standard Australian employment practices
- May improve workforce flexibility and job allocation
- Shiftwork Provisions Reverting to Award
- Removal of custom shiftwork rules introduced in 2025
- Reverting back to the Building & Construction Award interpretation
- Aims to reduce confusion and improve consistency
- Leading Hand Pay Clarification
- Transition from hourly-based to weekly-based calculations for certain roles
- Correction of previous calculation inconsistencies
- Clearer guidance for both weekly hire and daily hire workers
To explore the proposed changes in detail, including full tables and technical explanations:
Updated Pay Structure Snapshot
Under the proposed model:
- Category A: Traffic Controller / Basic WTMS – from $35.67/hr
- Category B: WTMS / TMA Operator – from $37.15/hr
- Category C: Advanced WTMS / Traffic Manager – from $39.00/hr
All rates will be adjusted annually with AWR increases.
The Pay Summary Tables also outline:
- Overtime & penalty rates
- Shiftwork rates
- Casual and daily hire pay structures
To explore the full breakdown of pay rates, allowances, and classifications, access the full document below.
Consultation Process
Main Roads WA is currently seeking feedback from:
- Traffic management companies
- Industry associations
- Unions and workers
Feedback submissions are open until 7 May 2026, with final decisions expected to be announced before mid-June 2026.
For further information on the Registration Scheme click here.
