The overhead electronic signs will display normal speed limits relevant to that section of a smart freeway. However, they can be changed by our operators in response to traffic build-ups or incidents on the freeway, slowing vehicles down safely to allow the traffic ahead to clear.

By managing the flow of traffic onto our freeways, we can reduce the impact of incidents and shorten the time taken to clear stop start traffic conditions.

These overhead electronic signs are controlled by the Road Network Operations Centre, which monitors traffic numbers and speeds on our smart freeways using a range of technologies such as in-road sensors, radars and CCTV.

When there’s an incident causing traffic to build up, our LUMS is used by our operators to reduce speeds on the freeway. Slowing vehicles down allows the traffic ahead to clear, helps manage safety within congested sections of the freeway and minimises the potential for rear-end crashes.

The overhead electronic signs are also used to close lanes, by displaying a red X and direct traffic into adjoining lanes, with white directional when there’s an incident or hazard ahead on freeway.

These systems are used to enhance safety and improve traffic flow.

The signs change quickly, generally within a minute. Our operators monitor the system 24/7 and can implement appropriate responses to help redirect traffic around an incident. As soon as an incident has cleared our operators will return the freeway to normal operating conditions.

No, the overhead electronic sign speed limits will always be consistent across all open lanes.

However, a red diagonal cross signifies that motorists must not drive in that lane. 

A white arrow indicates that motorists must leave the lane as soon as safe to do so, prior to the red cross. The direction of an angled arrow provides guidance for the direction in which a motorist should change lanes or exit.