Drones For Roads

As the first BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) approval in Australia to operate alongside and across the M1 highway – where vehicles travel at speeds of up to 110 km/h – the Drones for Roads program represents a ground-breaking initiative that has transformed the management of traffic incidents and special events throughout New South Wales. Through the innovative use of real-time aerial intelligence, the program delivers enhanced safety, operational efficiency, and coordination across complex transport networks. 

By providing unprecedented situational awareness, drones help reduce the risk of secondary crashes, minimise congestion, and optimise emergency vehicle routing. This capability strengthens decision-making through data-driven insights, bridges CCTV coverage gaps, and improves resource allocation during both everyday operations and major events. 

The program empowers the Transport Management Centre (TMC) with critical, real-time information, enabling proactive incident response and streamlining event oversight. It has proven especially valuable during high-attendance events, where drone monitoring of crowd and traffic movements ensures seamless multimodal coordination and improved pedestrian safety. 

Expanding beyond road networks, the program has collaborated with NSW Maritime to support the management of major aquatic events including Sydney Harbour’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, SailGP, and the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. By livestreaming aerial observations, drones have enhanced situational awareness, reduced the need for on-water patrols, and supported more efficient response coordination. They have also contributed to better monitoring of boating infrastructure and improved asset management across NSW waterways.

 Recognised by TMC operators and drone pilots alike for its transformative impact, Drones for Roads exemplifies innovation, cross-agency collaboration, and sustainability. It challenges traditional practices with bold, forward-thinking solutions, fostering excellence in public service and setting a new benchmark in safety, efficiency, and resilience across the transport sector.