Friday, 16 October 2026
Austroads has released an updated version of the Australasian Pedestrian Facility Selection Tool and its accompanying User Guide.
The targeted update revises the crossing sight distance calculation to align with the current Austroads Guide to Road Design Part 4A. The updated calculation now includes three seconds for pedestrian start-up and clearance when determining the time available for a pedestrian to safely cross and clear the road before the arrival of approaching traffic. This provides a more conservative assessment of crossing sight distance requirements. As a result, some assessments undertaken using the updated tool may produce different results from earlier versions.
Amy Naulls, Austroads Transport Network Program Manager, said the change was small but important. “This is a targeted technical update rather than a major change to the tool. However, it is important that practitioners use the latest version, so their assessments reflect current Austroads guidance and appropriately account for the time pedestrians need to start crossing and clear the road safely.”
The tool helps practitioners compare pedestrian crossing facilities at mid-block and intersection locations. It considers factors including safety, pedestrian and vehicle delay, sight distance, pedestrian level of service and economic outcomes.
The updated User Guide explains the tool’s inputs, outputs and underlying assessment process. The tool supports, but does not replace, engineering judgement, applicable jurisdictional requirements or engagement with the community.
Practitioners are encouraged to use the latest version for new assessments and to take the revised calculation into account when revisiting previous assessments.