Austroads has released a new report to improve planning for micromobility across Australia and New Zealand to increase the number of people using transportation methods such as bikes and e-scooters.
Among its key recommendations, the report suggests updates to the Austroads Guide to Traffic Management (AGTM) to strengthen connections to best-practice planning and design principles and draws on internationally recognised frameworks.
The report proposes a glossary of common terms, which will help ensure that terminology is clearer and better reflects the diversity of road users.
Austroads said that recognising that communities increasingly want to use e-scooters and other mini vehicles such as kick scooters, skateboards and unicycles, the report provides advice on how to plan our transport networks to accommodate a wider variety of vehicles.
Austroads Transport Network Operations Program Manager, Amy Naulls, said these recommendations will inform future updates to the AGTM and other Austroads guidelines.
“We know that people who ride bikes and people who use e-scooters make these choices to benefit their own health, but they also benefit the wider community through reduced vehicle traffic and lower emissions.”
Ms Naulls said bicycles and micromobility are vital contributors to a healthy transport system.
“This report sets out practical steps to help make streets safer and more accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
“With these recommendations and the supporting tools, we can help create a more connected and inclusive transport network across Australia and New Zealand.”
The report also introduces three key tools to assist planners and decision-makers:
- Cycling Level of Service (CLoS) Tool – assesses the quality of cycling routes by evaluating factors such as safety and comfort, ensuring infrastructure meets user needs
- All Ages and Abilities (AAA) Cycle Facility Selection Tool – helps planners choose the most suitable cycling facilities based on local context and traffic conditions
- Crossing Selection Guide – assists in determining the most appropriate crossing type for people on bikes, considering speed limits and site-specific factors
The tools are designed for use in both Australia and New Zealand
Download the report and tools here.
