Traffic management training review proves a winning formula

In South Australia, Yorke Peninsula Council’s Temporary Traffic Management Harmonisation project has received the Local Government Association Workers Compensation Scheme’s WHS Best Practice Regional Award. The project followed the council’s comprehensive review of its traffic management training in response to national changes introduced by AustRoads. The council restructured its traffic management training into three targeted courses covering six units of competency — previously, it had been delivered as one course. A smarter, streamlined approach that improved safety outcomes while reducing unnecessary training was the result.

Close council consultation with managers and supervisors identified which roles required certification, leading to the removal of redundant training — for roles such as weed spray operators and mechanics — and a more focused approach for others. Traffic Controller training was only completed by staff needing stop/slow skills, while most were trained as Traffic Management Implementers, being responsible for setting up and packing down work zones. As part of the project, staff recorded practical tasks onsite and submitted footage for review, which avoided the need for assessors to travel long distances.

Bobbi Pertini, Yorke Peninsula Council’s Manager People, Culture and Safety, said the project reflected the council’s practical and people-focused approach to safety. “We wanted to do more than just meet compliance,” Pertini said. “This project ensures our people receive training that’s relevant to their roles, without unnecessary time and cost burdens.

“It’s a smarter way of working — and a safer one.”

For its phased rollout, employees with expiring certifications were prioritised, with onsite training delivered in partnership with CivilEdge.