Another Charge for Death in Traffic Management Industry

Victoria’s traffic management industry is in the midst of significant reform following a series of serious workplace incidents in recent years. These safety failures have driven a comprehensive review of training standards and practices across the sector—well before the most recent tragedy involving a 58-year-old worker.

The worker, employed by Blackwood & Co Pty Ltd (trading as MakeSafe Traffic Management), was fatally injured after exiting his stationary ute, which was then struck by another vehicle during a streetlight inspection. He was working alone at the time of the incident.

Following an investigation, WorkSafe Victoria has charged the company with breaching sections 21(2)(a) and 26(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. The regulator alleges that the company failed to implement a safe system of work. In particular, it claims that a two-person patrol approach, with inspections performed from within the vehicle, would have significantly reduced the risk.

The matter is scheduled for a filing hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 10 September 2025.

Victoria’s Traffic Management Training Reforms Already Underway

The fatal incident occurred during a period of major change to Victoria’s Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) framework. In 2024, the state adopted the Austroads National Training Framework (NTF) to improve consistency, compliance, and safety in traffic management across Australia.

The new framework requires workers in key traffic roles to complete Austroads-approved training and obtain formal qualifications. These include:

• Traffic Controller (TC1 & TC2)
• Traffic Management Implementer (TMI1 & TMI2)

The goal is to ensure that all personnel involved in traffic control and management—regardless of the worksite type—are trained to a nationally consistent standard that reflects best practice.

Training Now Mandatory for Non-Operational Roles

Beyond field workers, the framework also mandates training for non-operational personnel such as project managers, council officers, and others involved in reviewing or approving Traffic Management Plans (TMPs).

These individuals must now complete Austroads-approved training to ensure they understand relevant legislation, risk controls, and planning responsibilities. This change supports a more informed and safety-focused approach to traffic management planning and oversight.

Industry, Councils, and Contractors Preparing for Compliance

Organisations across the state—including local councils, infrastructure contractors, and traffic management providers—are actively working to meet these new compliance requirements. Many are partnering with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to enrol staff in approved training courses and align internal practices with the new standards.

Stakeholders are also engaging with Austroads, WorkSafe Victoria, and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to clarify transition timelines, accreditation pathways, and procurement expectations under the updated framework.

Revised procurement policies are being rolled out, especially in public and utility sectors, to ensure all subcontractors are properly qualified and compliant with the Austroads requirements.

RTOs Supporting Workforce Transition and Compliance

Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are playing a critical role in delivering Austroads-endorsed training to the sector. They are providing both classroom-based and practical components of training, while supporting workforce planning for long-term capability and workforce building.

RTOs are also working closely with councils, road authorities, and traffic companies to provide support during the transition period. Industry feedback is being used to enhance training delivery and ensure real-world relevance across different worksite conditions.

Strengthening Safety and Compliance Across Victoria

As the Austroads National Training Framework continues to be implemented across Victoria, the collaboration between training providers, regulators, and industry stakeholders remains key to improving safety and compliance.

While the death of the streetlight inspector is a devastating reminder of the risks facing roadside workers, it also underscores the importance of embedding robust training, clear systems of work, and nationally consistent standards across the industry.

Learn More

To stay updated on traffic management training requirements and safety regulations in Victoria, visit the WorkSafe Victoria website or Austroads