Traffic Management
- Publication no: AP-G104-23
- ISBN: 978-1-922994-10-3
- Published: 11 September 2023
- PDF (free) Download
Austroads extended vehicle classification scheme builds on the influential 1994 scheme.
The extended scheme provides greater granularity across the 12 classes in the 1994 scheme. It also provides a new classes for:
- active transport to address the need to count people walking and using mobility devices, wheelchairs and scooters
- unmatched vehicles that cannot be matched to any other class.
This guideline briefly summarises the reasoning and characteristics of the Austroads extended vehicle classification scheme and guides the reader in applying the scheme to traffic survey data.
A research report (Background to the Extended Austroads Vehicle Classification Scheme for Traffic and Transport Surveys) provides a detailed analysis of the approach to developing the extended scheme.
Watch the three webinars below to explore new elements of the vehicle classification scheme with Drew Gaynor and David Johnston.
Austroads road user classification scheme
Austroads is developing a new national classification scheme—Austroads-26—to give road managers clearer, more consistent data on how transport networks are being used.
Following strong input from government and industry (over 350 survey responses), we’ve released a new concept scheme architecture that reflects what stakeholders told us they need:
- greater flexibility
- better representation of active users
- clearer definitions that don’t tie you to specific tech.
The scheme includes a CORE classification, a LENGTH fallback, and optional PLUS components for added detail—like extended axle data, visual identification, or specialised labels.
The architecture is modular and tech-agnostic—built to support a range of operational needs and product capabilities.
Learn more about the project and review the concept architecture here.
- 1. Purpose
- 1.1 Scope
- 1.2 What has Changed in the Extended Vehicle Classification Scheme?
- 1.2.1 Key Changes
- 1.3 How Does the Extended Scheme Benefit Vehicle Surveys?
- 2. Graphical Representation of Extended Vehicle Classification Scheme