The Honourable Geoff Craige MLC Minister for Roads and Ports 5th Floor 60 Denmark Street KEW VIC 3101
Dear Minister
VICROADS' ANNUAL REPORT 1995-96
I have pleasure in submitting to you, for presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report of the Roads Corporation (VicRoads) for the period 1 ] uly 1995 to 30 June 1996.
Yours sincerely
COLIN JORDAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE
052 VicRoads 1995-1996 Annual report :VicRoads Location: A-YR Barcode: 31010000907933 Contents
Purpose Statement for VicRoads 4
About VicRoads 5
Report from Chief Executive 6
Highlights of the year 9
Managing Victoria's l{oad System 12
Road .Maintenance 12 Major Road Improvement Projects B 111e Better Roads Victoria Program 15 Planning for the Fulure 17 Federal funding 18
Traffic and Road Use Managemenl 20
Improving Traffic flow 20 Orban Traffic Management System 21 Traffic Information Services 22 Road Freight Efficiency 2:1 Safe Bus Operations 24
Road Safety 26
Safety First 26 • The Yarra and Gardiners Creek bike path bridge provides accRss to the city Road Safety Management 26 from the south-eastern suburbs. Safe Roads 26 Safe Vehicles 27 Safe Road Users 27 Education and Schools 29 Community Activities 29 'l11e Third International Conference on Injury Prevention ~~~ w National Road Rules 30
Registration and I -iccnsing Services 32
New Technology :12 New and Rr.vitalise
Enhancing the Envirorunent 38 VicRoads' Environment Strategy 38 Platypus Prosper 38 Calder llridge Restoration 38 Landscaping on the Eastern Freeway 38 • Drive Time is a world standard Adopt a Highway Scheme sophisticated information system to 39 enable drivers to make informed Bicycles 39 decisions about traffic routes.
2 C... ontents
r Optimising Business Efficiency 40 Our People 40 Competition Policy 11 Privale Sector Partnership 41 Regional Service Delivery 41 Approaches to Best Practice 42 Use of Technology 42 Research and Developmenl 43 Ethnic Communications 44 VicRoadi:; External Projects 44 Corporate Struclure 46 Advisory Board 46 Corporate Management Group 47 Management Committee 47 Senior \:Janagemcnt Structure 48
Financial Management 49 financial Statements 52
A.ppendices 68
Legislation 68 Audit Report 69 Workforce Data 69 Freedom of Information 70 VicRoads' Officers 70 VicRoads and AUSTROADS 70 Contracts 70 Prosecutions 71 • Landscaping on the Western Ring Road. Office Addresses 71
•
Cover The Yarra and Gardiners Creek bike path bridge.
\ \ • VicRoads has a comprehensive information technology network.
3 Purpose Statement for VicRoads
Our Purpose To serve the conunwtity by managing the Victorian road network and its use as an integTaJ part of the overall transport system. VicRoads, in partnership with other State and Federal Government agencies, local government and the private sector, contributes to the social and economic development of Victoria and Australia through its role in the management of the transport system.
Our Aims o To assist economic and regional development by improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the transport system.
:i To assist the efficient movement of people and freight and improve access to services for all transport system users. u To achieve a substantial reduction in the number and severity of road crashes and the resultant cost of road trauma.
O To be sensitive to the environment through responsible management of the transport network.
O To provide efficient and effective, nationally consistent, customer oriented driver Hcensing, vehicle registration, revenue collection, and driver and vehicle information services.
Our Values
:i We put our customers' and stakeholders' needs firsl
::i We develop as individuals and contribute as members of a team.
O We are open, honest and fair. u We take pride in our success and continuous improvement a We take responsibility for our actions. ,.
U We take a commercial approach to our service delivery.
4 Pvrpo:>e Statement for l/icRoads
About VicRoads VicRoads' services m·e delivered through Clear accountabilities have been a statewide network, comprising two established for achieving agreed The Roads Corporation is a Victorim1 metropolitan and five rural regional outcomes mid outputs in each program. statutory aulhorily operating under the offices, thirty-nine registration and VicRoads' 'Aims' arc reflected in the registered business name of 'VicRoads'. licensing offices, and a supporting objectives aod strategics for each of its '11ie Chief Executive is the sole member net\vork oI agenls. Large scale projects core business areas. of the Corporation. His powers have been are managed from separate offices. Road delegated in accordance with the VicRoads has some 2800 staff who work maintenance and minor road improve Transport Act 1983 and the Road Safety in partnership wilh the private sedor to ment works are carried out by VicRoads' Act 1986. The Chief Executive is assisted continuously improve the delivery of staff and contractors. in his duties by the VicRoads Advisory cost-effective products and services to Board, the Corporate Management VicRoads has four core businesses lo the community. Group, the Management Committee and provide a clear focus for service delivery: the Audit Committee. • Road Safety
VicRoads is Victoria's road and traifi.c • Registration and Licensing agency, responsible for managing the • Road System Managemenl State's declared road system. VicRoads has an annual program expenditure • Traffic and Road Use :\1anagement (both capital and recurrent) of over $800 VicRoads' organisation struclure, million and collects $1.4 billion for t11c program structure and financial systems State Government and the Transport have been shaped to re.fled the core Accident Commission through licensing, businesses. registration and other fees.
• Upgrading the South Eastern Arterial to full freeway standard will improve access to and from the city.
5 Report from Chief Executive
icRoads contributes to Victoria's economic, social and V envirorunental objectives, through the management of the road network and its use as an integral part of the overall transport system. Our efforts throughout the year have helped to improve business competitiveness and make Victoria a better place to live, work and do business. • Chief Executive, Colin Jordan
ignificant milestones were achieved The State Government's Better Roads ilie duplical'ion of the Bendigo Rcdcsdale Sin upgrading cransport links. Two Victoria Program, financed by tJ1e three Road (Condon Street), and replacement sections of the Western Ring Road were cents per litre fuel levy, provides funding of bridges over the Loddon and Hopkins completed during the year mid substan· for projects which. improve the efficiency Kivers. tial progress was made on a third. and safety of major freight routes and On the national scene, Victoria has led L:pgrading of the South Eastern Arterial arterial roads, support rei.,rional and trade the way in implementing a number of to freeway conditions continued during development, and improve the capacity of industry initiatives. It was the first state the year. TI1e 9 km section oi tl1e Calder rural arterial roads and bridges. The to introduce all len reforms of the Heavy Freeway from Diggers Rest to Gisborne program provided Sl70 million for some Vehicle Reform Package. The Package Souili (Gap Hill section) was opened by 188 projects this year, including the will assist both the local road transport the Minister for Roads and Ports on 1 upgrading of the South Eastern Arlerial, industry and VicRoads to operate more May 1996, completing another stage of ilie last stage nf the Monash Highway efficiently, improve safety and reduce the Calder Highway Strategy to provide a duplication, the widening and rehabilita administration costs. duplicated road from Melbourne to tion of Alexandra Parade, the reconstruc Bendigo. tion of the Mount Buller Tomist Road, VicRoads continued to play a lead role in tl1e development and implementation of a National Performance Management Framework for the road system and road authorities. A set of nineteen indicators was refined and progressively reported this year.
VkRoads worked with other agencies and key stakeholder groups during the year to develop road related strategies for achieving Govenm1ent objectives.
Linking Victoria which sets out a strategy for the management and development of Victoria's rural and arterial roads over Lhe next decade was largely completed dw-ing the year.
VicRoads was the lead agency in the development of Safety First, the Government's five year strategy to further reduce the incidence, severity and cost to tl1e community of road crashes. The strategy was launched in • Customers using touch screens at VicRoads new East Burwood office at Tally Ho September 1995. Technology Park.
6 l?e,oort from Chief Executive
VicRoads' Environment Strategy, which was released in May 1996, charts a course for the consolidation and further improvement of our environmental performance over the next several years. It proposes actions in relation to traffic noise, air quality, flora and fauna, aesthet ics, water quality, heritage and hazardous goods. Detail on implementation of the strategy is provided in this annual report.
A new information technology strategy, it@vr, released in June 1996, reflects the organisation's commitment to enhanced performance through lhe application of technology. The stratei..'Y aligns with, and supports, kr.y Government directions, policies and initiatives.
The availability of new technologies provided a number of exciting opportuni ties for VicRoads to improve service delivery. Drive Time, a sophisticated information system which enables drivers to make more informed decisions about traffic routes, was introducr.cJ on tl1e South Eastern Arterial
7 Report ftorr~ Chief Executive
throughout the coming year. Many • invesLrnent in road construction On 2 April 1996, U1e Government business processes were reviewed and projects in Victoria generally show~ a established a new Department of these delivered estimated savings of$7.5 higher level of return to road users Infrastructure encompassing many million for the Corporation, and than investment in other States; and planning and transport activities witl1in ultimately, its cuslomers. the State. VicRoads is pleased to be part • Vic.Roads ' unit road maintenance of this initiative which has the potential to During the year, the Design Department, costs are below the national average. significantly improve the level of co the Land lnformalion and Survey \.Yhilst there have been significant ordination and cooperation across these Department, and the Bituminous achievements we have many challenges importanl areas of the public and private Surfacing operations received third party ahead of us. \>Ve must continue to catch sectors. This can ultimately bring consid certification to the international Quality up on an inheritance of inadequate invest erable benefits to the Victorian Assurance Slandard ISO 9000. This ment in the maintenance and rehabilita community. certification will ensure that systems are tion of our roads, particularly in outer in place to improve service to customers Our people are VicRoads' strength. metropolitan and rural areas. and confirms VicRoads' public commit VicRoads' successes over the past year ment LO quality service delivery. A have been largely due to its people. 111ey further five business areas are on track to '' Investment in road have continued Lo respond positively to achieve certificat.ion by the end of June construction projects i.r. the challenges of the rapidly changing 1997. Victoria generaily shews a business environment. I thank them all for their dedication and hard work. i..;,,.i1e~ 1 rp... 1 ·~-) t·" In The results of our benchmarki ng activi !.b <:;- l J...... PVel . v.!.,..,+ ...... t.L . .1. l4 "'"'' particular. I wish to record my thanks Lo ti es have reflected the bard work r(Jad users than !nvest the members of Lhe Board and the widertakcn by VicRoads over the past men t !n ct"'lcr States.'' Corporate Management Group, both of few ye.ars in focusi ng i t~ core business whom have made major conLributions to activities. rationalising its service There is also a need Lo continue the drive the achievements and program of a fine delivery mechanisms and re-engineering to reduce the level of congestion on organisation in 1995-96. for reduced costs. Melbourne's roads. \'\'hilst in morning Results from the latest round of nati<>nal mid afternoon peak times Melbourne's performance benchmarking shows that: congestion (as measured by national performane-e indicators) was slightly • the Viclorian public's satisfaction with Colin Jordan lower than that of Sydney, off-peak traffic its road system is higher than in most congestion was higher than in all other Chief faecutivc l other States and Territories; ii Australian capital cities. Melbourne's ' \ I • VicRoads' cosL of maintaining vehicle lraffic congestion costs are in excess of ! registration and driver licence records $1.8 billion each year. is the lowest of all Auslralian States Despite Victoria's good road safely and Territories except for Tasmania; performance, road trauma continues to • Victoria's road fatality raLes are lower cost the Victorian community around than all other States as a result of $1.2 billion a year. New work undertaken strongly coordinated, proven by VicRoads indicates that the involve programs delivered by our key road ment of drugs in ro ad crashes is very safety agencies - VicRoads, VicLoria high and that the road toll could be Police and the Transport Accident reduced by one-eighth if successful Commission; counter-measures could be identified and implemented.
8 !-L l!nh.. - _, "enr H 1gn11~. T:; U1 •"'eh• - !I -·
VicRoads led the country with the swift introduction of nationally agreed reforms in the freight industry, improving safety, ensuring more efficient use of the road system, and reducing administration costs. The reforms included new national heavy vehicle registration charges and simplified driver licence categories.
A voluntary Mass Management Accreditation Program was commenced, as a pilot, to allow transport operators to guarantee their compliance with vehicle mass limits.
S ignificant progress was made in developing the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVD IS), which allows driver and • Heavy vehicle reforms have led to vehicle information to be transferred between States and Territories. improved road transport operations.
The highly successful VicRoads Bike Ed program was redeveloped as a National Bike Ed program for primary schools.
VicRoads released an Environment Strategy which addresses traffic noise, flora and fauna, aesthetics, water quality, heritage and hlWlrdous goods.
Safety Fi1'st, the Government's strategy to reduce the severity and cost of road crashes, was launched.
VicRoads developed SafeDrive, a one day road safety awareness seminar • Enha:;ci,ng the roadside environ for older drivers. SafeDrive stresses the link between capable driving and ment on the Western Ring Road. good health.
Two sections of the Western Ring Road were completed during the year, improving access across Melbourne's northern and western suburbs.
A further section of the Ballarat Bypass, on the Western Highway, was opened in December 1995 at a cost of $25 million. The Bypass is part of the Federal National Highway Program and provides a second carriageway betWeen Woodmans Hill and Gillies Street
The E J Whitten Bridge across the Maribyrnong River was opened by the Premier on 18 August 1995.
InOc tober 1995, the bridge joining the Yarra and Gar Works on Alexandm Parade were completed, providing increased capacity, smoother traffic flow and reduced delays; with reductions of up to 55 per cent in some trip times. $7.3 million was spent treating 99 blackspot locations. TAC provided $5.3 million and the State Government $2 million. VicRoads improved its response time to incidents, which delay freeway traffic, through the development of its world class incident detection system. • Smoother traffic flow on T raf:fic congestion was reduced on 139 km of Principal Traffic Routes Alexandra Parade. under the Kerblane Management Program. Melbourne motorists were able to make more informed decisions about traffic routes with the insta1lation of Drive Time, a sophisti cated information system on the South Eastern Arterial. The Victorian Road Freight AdviRory Cound conducted five regional forums during the year. These forums provided valuable feedback from industry and the general community, and have been important in identify ing opportunities for further reforms. VicRoads established an accreditation program for Victoria's bus companies to improve bus safety. • Drive Time is a world standard tmffic information system. VicRoads participated in the development of the 'whole of Government' Electronic Service Delivery (ESD) network being established by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. VicRoads introduced computerised licence testing, the first high quality, DRIVl'R t.fCEHCE >1 1r1"""'"'"' ... o"lo • M4'1\.IA interactive multi-media testing system in Australia and the only system in ••-$iii., ...... ~ ~' :.:.,f))'.~it.h; n:w ~t· the world to incorporate a hazard perception test. .... ,... ~ .:.·•:>. t'JC~ 'NR: :,,,,,• .,,•. ., . (;Hf improved secmity features and is one of the most tamper-proof licences in the world. • The new instant licence with improved security features. Slimline registration plates were introduced to complement design trends in modern motor vehicles. ,., A new Warragul office was opened in June 1996 and now provides multiple transaction customer service points to maximise efficiency and reduce waiting times. It has the latest registration and Ecensing t:echrrology including computerised licence testing. The new Tally Ho office at Burwood East, which incorporates the latest technology, is providing registration and licensing services I and will serve as headquarters for the South East Metropolitan I Region, was completed ready for business on 1 July l 996. I An electronic document system was introduced to provide customer service staff with immediate access to policies, procedures and business • The new Tally Ho office at i rules. It ensures that customers receive accurate and reliable service. Burwood East. I I orkCover costs were reduced by 28 per cent; saving Victorians more r W than $1 mjllion a year. I ..'i;·JW!lb~ Ilic ·.·;.."-'fiic.3.~M r.:..r·~·:11111~·11. ~;.: I for the WalhaJla Tourist Road truss bridge over the Thomson River. Other • VicRoads Home Page on tlte a-wards receive<:'. durbg the year included the Nationat and State Internet. Engineering Excel1en.ce Awards for work on the Hume Freeway, Craigieburn to Wodonga; and a Bronze Award for the 1994-95 Annual Report. Graham Gilpin, Project Manager, Wesb~rn mng Road. was awarded the Public Service Medal for his contribution to the management of major road proje(.,i:s. 1 Barry Jan, Section Leader in Traffic Operatior..s, was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding service and frmovative development in improving traffic flow and road user services. l I I • Pedestrian bridge at Western Ring Road. l I l Managing Victoria's Road System 'icRoads assists economic and regional development by roadside plantations and to provide Vimproving accessibility, reducing travel costs and providing litter collection, and to conlrol vermin road users with safe, reliable and efficient road conditions. This and noxious weeds. involves maintaining and improving the condition and petfor Productivity Gains mance of Victoria's 22,160 Ian of arterial roads and 2,760 bridges Considerable gains continued to be made to ensure that they meet the needs of Victorian road users. During in delivering maintenance programs. 1995-96, VicRoads initiated, or completed, a number of major Due to very competitive prices, 90 km nf projects to meet these needs, in some cases introducing exciting roads in excess of the target were new technologies not previously used in Australia. resurfaced in the year. Rates for routine maintenance were reduced by 2.5 per cent leading to savings in this area. Re>ad Maintenance provided for resurfacing 2240 km, The gains were a result of more effective including 10.4 per cent of the chip mainlenance management, assisted by Maintenance Strategies seal network and 4.7 per cent of the annual benchmarking between regions The 1995-96 road maintenance asphalt pavemenl surface, and 200 km and between councils. Contracting has programs continued the implementation of rehabilitation by reconstruction or become more competitive due to tl1e of the Government's road and bridge major patching; further outsourcing of VicRoads' maintenance strategies, Stitch in Time • S8 million for the maintenance of the operations and the requirements of and Victoria's Bridges, which provide a State's 2760 bridges. The total compulsory competitive tendering for commitment to restore and maintain safe expenditure on bridge mainlenance local government works. and efficient travel conditions on existing and replacement was $17 million, arte1ial roads and bridges. enabling the replacement and Natural Disaster Damage The total cost of road and bridge mainte upgrading of 29 bridges to be In November 1995, heavy rains and nance for 1995-96 was $161 million, completed, and work on a further 14 severe storms in south-western and comprising: bridges to be commenced; and eastern Victoria resulted in exlensive damage to roads. VicRoads assisted the • $17 million for maintenance of road • $136 million for t11e maintenance of Department of Treasury in assessing road pavements and surfacing; this reserves to protect and enhance local government claims for natural Road Maintenance disaster relief amounting to $1.6 million. In addition, natural disaster damage of Victoria's road maintenance costs a1·e below the Austrc:tlian average. $ 1.7 million, on declared roads, had to be Maintenance cost per kilometre ro keep the road conditions below an acceptable roughness level absorbed within VicRoads' maintenance lmdget causing 0U1er works to be 4.57 deferred. 4.35 Monitoring Road Conditions During the year, pavement conditions were measured on 11,500 km of the arterial road network as part of the ongoing road condition monitoring prognllll. The results confirmed that increased maintenance budgets in the past two to three years have arrested the increasing roughness evident in the early 1990s, but showed that main roads in the VlC WA SA 11\S 1\1 All Roads metropolitan area were significantly 12 .Managing Vic:lorios Road System rougher than other roads. Analysis of stage in the extension of tl1e Eastern The Eastern Freeway project will greatly the survey results showed that an Freeway. 'll1esc overpasses will ensure enhance access to Melbourne's outer increase in rehabilitation expenditure of uninterrupted traffic flow while the eastern suburbs. It is expected to be $20 million a year would be required to Freeway is being built. Most of the first completed by late 1997 and within the rehabilitate the busy rough roads in stage of the Ringwood Bypass was also approved budget of S250 million. urban areas, and to achieve the most completed in 1995-96. within the 111e first stage of the Ringwood Hypass cost-effective maintenance program in approved budget of $33 million. will open in September 1996. rural areas. Contractors involved were Roche Bros for the Ringwood Bypass, and John Western Ring Road A bridge condition survey was initiated Holland Engineering- and Construction, The 29 km, $650 million, Western Ring during the year. Thirty per cent of Baulders!one Hornibrook, Fletcher Road will provide improved access arterial road bridges were inspected as Construction and Abigroup Contractors across Melbourne's northern and part of a regular monitoring program for for the Eastern Freeway. western suburbs for freight, business all arterial road bridges. and private travel, and link major rural Extensive community consultation was highways to western and northern Maior Road undertaken in respect of noise walls, Victoria. Three sections were under Improvement Proi~d!< landscaping and other· construction construction during 1995-96, at a cost of aspects of Ll1e two projects. Three approximately $90 million. Major Eastern Freeway and Ringwood wetlands are being constrncted adjacent contractors involved were: Thiess Bypass to the Eastern Freeway to restore Constructions, Trans.field Cons!ru(..tion, Road overpasses at Tram Road. Elgar appropriate habitats for water birds and Transfield Construction/Roche Bros Road, Middleborough Road, Blackburn aquatic life. Work has conunenced on the Joint Venture, Rowe and 1110mas, John Road and Springvale Road were first of these and all three are expe(..ted to Holland, Fletcher Construction and completed during 1995-96, as a first be completed by December 1996. Leighton Contractors. • The E j Mitten Bridge across the Maribyrnong. 13 /vlon~Jgir.9 Victcrio'.5 Road System The Ring Road, though not fully • official opening of tJ1e E J \l\'hitten • Tooronga Road overpass which was cmnpleled, is widely recognised as Bridge across the Maribyrnong River opened lo traffic in January l 996; by the Premier on 18 August 1995; having already brought significant • parLly completed Burke Road economic and social benefits to the and interchange which was opened in community. Traffic volumes reduced • opening lo traffic of a length of the \'larch 1996: and significantly on local roads when two Ardeer section of the project (between • partly completed Toorak Road bridge completed sections were opened during the Western Highway and Boundary which was opened in '.\.'lay 1996. the year. Travel times have been reduced Road) on 6 March 1996. and local roads are now safer because of The major contraclors for the freeway, reduced lraffic. 'J11e surrounding South Eastern Arterial which is due for complelion in early 1997, landscape has also been enhanced with TI1e $100 million upgrading of the South are Leighton Contractors and .1\kron lhe planting of more than twenty Eastern Arterial to full freeway Roads. thousand shrubs and trees, and some conditions from north ofToorak Road to Works have, throughout construction, half a million ground-cover plants. Warrigal Road will reduce the congestion been planned and executed to minimise and delays experienced by more than Highlighls of the Western Ring Road disruption to the travelling public and 100,000 vehicles which.use t11e road each project in 1995-96 were the: lol·al community. A significant achieve day. • opening of the Maribyrnong section ment has been to enable traffic. of up to A number of importru1t milesLones in between Ke.ilor Park Drive and the 170,000 vehicles per day, to move construclion of the freeway were Western Highway. providing an through the consLruction zones withoul achieved in 1995-96. 111ey were the: increasing travel times or causing undue additional crossing of the :Vlaribyrnong River. This has • widening of the Dandenong bow1d delays. improved access belween the carriageway belween High Street and A number of exciting technological communities of t<:ast Keilor and Wanigal Road, which was completed innovations assisted VicRoacls lo meet Sunshine; and opened to traffic in December the challenge of the task. 1995; • >Joise barriers made of lightweighl concrete panels were specially I devclop~d by VicRoads and Leighton Contractors. These barriers can be Continued emphasis on road maintenance is required to improve Victoria's shaped and patterned to add visual I smooth travel performance. The proportion of travel by Victorians on inLeresL. A motif inspired by the ~ : smooth roads is less than the national average. I Proportion of travel 011 smooth s!!aled urban aud rural roads famous Auslralian artist, the late Fred Williruns, has been used to decorate one section. In a first for Victoria, J•)() ____ ,...... - •..•. .. l'~J ...... JQIJ transparent barriers have also been used in some locations, to reduce the tmmel-like effect of continuous high ~~-~, ..... ···-···-···--- baniers. •l 91 • A section of the Burke Koad !lO interchange spans the Gardiners Creek, and posed a complex engineer· i "4 ing challenge to provide passage for floodwaters without causing upstream flooding. The solution was a 400 I \·IC :\~'\V W.J\ SA TAS iVIC i! 14 • Barriers on the South Eastern Arterial will help reduce traffic noise for nearby including five fatalities. TI1e new section, residents. built by Abigroup Contractors, will provide signi.Jkant traffic flow improve • Extensive sediment conn·ol measures part of the Federal ~ational Highway ments and is expected to reduce have been implemented along those Program, the project provides a second accidents by 2!i per cent. sections of the Gardincrs Creek carriageway between Woodmans Hill imd affected by freeway works. These Gillies SlreeL. Extensive tree pllmting The Better Roads Victo1·ia measures include rock lining of the and landscaping works were undertaken Program Creek, geotexrile covering for lhe to ensure the Bypass is integrated into ballers and exlensive use of sediment the surrounding landscape. The Better Roads Victoria Program, traps. Regular monitoring ensun~s financed by the three cents Iler litre fuel Princes Highway East that any adverse impact on water levy. In 1995-96 $196 million was spent The Trafalgar East to Moe section of the quality is minimised. on Better Roads projectc;. This brings the Princes Highway was opened in August total value of projects approved sinc.c the • The Japanese firm l\issho lwai, 1995, with the full duplication to be inception of the program to $614 million, subcontracted by Leighton Con completed by mid 1997. Road users will representing 249 projects in country tractors, used new laser t\Ulllelling benefit from reduced travel times and Victoria and 44 in Melbourne. technology to c.onstruct the sewer operating costs, and road safety will also that runs alongside the Arlerial. This be enhanced. The current work is being The upgrading and extension of lhe technology avoids lhe need for long carried out by Cook's Construction Eastern Freeway, South Eastern Arterial sections of deep open trenches, which under contracts worth $12.~ million and and the Calder Highway are three are both a safety concern and disrup $3.:i million. projects of strategic importance to tive to traffic. Many well established Victoria, which have been financed under Calder Highway trees were also saved by using this lhe Better Roads Victoria Program. tunnelling method. The $32 million Gap Hill section of the Other significant achievements in the Calder Highway from Diggers Rest to Western Highway :Vlillett Road was opened tn traffic in May 199~96 proi..rram included: A further section of the Ballarat Bypass 1996. T11is is a busy section of highway • completion of the Alexandra Parade was opened in December 1995 at a cost of carrying 15,000 vehicles per day, road widening and rehabilitation. and S25 million, $5 million under budget including 1500 trucks. In tl1e previous associated traffic managemenl works Cnnstructecl by Cook's Construction as five years there had been 49 accidents which have produced a marked 15 No0ncging Victoria 's l?ocd System and Fill Ply Ltd at a cost of $1.5 million. This has provided saier and more convenient ac.ccss to the Alpine National Park, one of Victoria's most popular all season tourist attractions; • duplication of the Bendigo Rcdesdale Road (Condon Street) between Bendigo and the fast growing township of S!rathficldsaye, to the east, has provided a far safer road on a very busy route. The duplication, construcled by Bencon al a cost of SJ .5 million, includes street lighting and cycle paths to enhance the entrance to Greater Bendigo; • replacement of the old bridge over the Loddon River at Newbridge, on the 13endi.go-Sl Arnaud Road. The bridge, which was part of the goldfu:lds tourist route, had reached the stage where further maintenance would not be cost- effective. A new bridge which provides a safe, flood free crossing has been buill by York Civil at a m>t of $1.4 million; and • replacement of the Glcnelg Highway • The sealing of the Great Alpi11e Road will provide more convenient access to bridge over the Hopkins River at Victoria s snowfields. Wickliffe, which WdS the last on the increase in traffic capacity, reducing was carried out by Peco Highway with a timber deck. '111e delays and achieving a smooth traffic Constructions; bridge was in poor condition and flow. This was confirmed by iu1 RACV subject Lo frequent flooding. The new • the last stage of the Monash Highway study conducted in August and bridge, constructed by Doug Lees duplication from Jacksons Road lo September 1995, which recorded an Construction al a cost of $145,000, Stud Road was completed by Robert average saving of 14 minutes in the will provide safe and reliable travel Portbury Constructions. The old road trip along Alexandra Parade between across the Hopkins River. '!be bridge was narrow and flood prone; the new Hoddle Street and Royal Parade in the approaches were constructed by facility provides vastly improved morning peak, westbound traffic, Morvcrk Constructions at a cost of conditions and access for this rapidly compared with the time for the same $700,000. developing n•.sidential and industrial trip in 1989. This represenl.s a 55 per area. 111e total cost of the project was cent reduction in travel time and $6.7 mi.Ilion; reduced vehicle emissions through reduction~ in stop-start driving. • reconstruction of the Mt Buller Roadworks were constructed under Tourist Road between Ten Mile Creek contract by Decco and landscaping and Merrijig was carried out by Cut 16 Monaging Victoria's Road System Planning for Th~ Future ment, economic growth, tourism and transport and urban development options safer travel. The strategy has been within the Scoresby corridor. Vic Roads is develope-.d in consullation with industry a joint proponent of the study and is Development of Trdllsport and rural road users to ensure that needs assisting the consultant with design Strategies are clearly defined. issues along the route reserved in the VicRoads continued to work with other planning scheme. Corridor studies assessing road develop government agencies to ensure planning menl and management needs were Future Hume Freeway link to for road improvements within an completed for the Calder Highway and the West.em Ring Road integrated framework. lt contributed to a the Western Highway. Studies The existing reservation for this route number of strategic studies including commenced on the Princes Highway passes through the Craigieburn Freightway Melbourne, Living Suburbs, East, Princes Highway West, Great Grasslands, a nationally significant area Scoresby Corridor Environment Effects Ocean Road, Midland Highway, which is being proposed as a flora and Sratement and Transporting Melbourne. Northern Highway, Bass Highway, South fauna reserve. VicRoads and lhe VicRoads largely completed the linking Gippsland Highway, and Maroondah Department of Natural Resources and Victoria study, which provides a strategic Highway. the Environment have been working framework for managing and developing together to evaluate alternative route Victoria's 18,000 km rural arrerial road Scoresby Corridor Planning Study options, through the Grasslands, which network over the next decade, It has a minimise the impact of the road whilst In February 1996, the consultant firm clear focus on enhancing the environ achieving a viable freeway route to meet Sinclair Knight Merz w-ds appointed to ment and supporting regional develop safety and transport needs. undertake an Environment Effects Statement evaluating integrated Cost Effective Road Construction Victoria has a relatively greater return on construction expenditure compared with other States. This is indicated by the higher proportion of projects yielding a high level of benefits compared to costs. The graph shows that 61 per cent of Victorian projects are within the benefit cost ratio of four to five. Percentage distribution of the total programmed expenditure on road construction projects. a c: 6Cfl•_ __ ;:; - -- ·-. -· • - - .. C\1 ..... 40'.I\_ ,.. ..,.. __ ...... _...... ····-· -·-- .. · - --~ -~- - ·------·---- ~ ___ ~ g0 ..., cO "'ci I I NSW QLD WA SA 'fAS •1to2 2 to 3 •3 to4 4 to 5 •>5 17 Managing Vic:toria'.s Rood Sysrem f ••.·• • The Geelong Road is a nationally significant route that links western Victoria to Melbourne and interstate destinations. Future Bypass of Shepparton Federal Funding VicRoads prepared the State A planning study was established to Government's submission for future Federal funding was provided for resolve the possible future bypass of federal funding of national roads in management of the declared National Shepparton. A range of issues and Victoria. The submission highlighted Highways in Victoria: options is being considered and an the restricted extent of the existing extensive program of community consul • Hume Highway from the Western national highway network within Victoria tation is being undertaken. FLtrther Ring Road to the New South Wales and the inadequate share of national assessment will be required prior to the border; investment in Victoria's road infrastruc tw-e. preparation of the Environment Effects • Western Highway from the Western Statement and planning scheme Ring Road to the South Australian The submission proposed major amendmenl in early 1997. border; improvements for existing national highways including progressive duplica Future Bypass of Albury • Goulburn Valley Highway from the tion of the Goulburn Valley Highway Wodonga Hume Highway lo the New South between the Hume Freeway and A joint Environmental Impact State Wales border; ment/Environmenl Effecls Slatement Shepparton; completion of the missing • Sturt Highway from the New South (EIS/EES) for a future Albury-Wodonga link of the Western Ring Road, between Wales border to the South Australian Bypass was prepared on behalf of the Mahoneys and Dallon Roads; a freeway border; and NSW Roads and Traffic Authority and standard connection between the Hume I• VicRoads. It was exhibited between • Western Ring Road from the Hume Freeway, at Craigieburn, and the .' l\ovember 1995 and January 1996. A joint Highway to the Western Highway Western Ring Road; and completion of Victoria/NSW/Commonwealth panel, including the airport section which is the Ballarat Bypass. I which heard submissions from currently under construction. Proposals for Roads of National interested groups, is yet to report to the Importance such as; upgrading and Governments involved. 18 Mano9in9 \!ic.·oric '.s .~oa d System widening of Geelong Road; construction Road System Management Program Performance of the Eastern Ring Road from Ringwood 1995-96 lo Frankston (the Scoresby Route) ; and Program Object.i v~: To contribute to economic and r e~onal development by furU1cr works on the Calder Highway improving Estimate Actual 1995-96 1995-96 Road System Development Strategic Road Links - progress towards completicn (%) Western Ring Road - Ardeer section 100 95 Western Ring Road - Plenty Rd to Dalton Rd 85 80 Calder Highway - Diggers Rest to Gisborne fi;)~ 65 Princes Highway East - Moc River lo Moe 80 80 Ringwood Bypass - Ringwood SL lo Mt Dandenong Rd 100 90 Eastern Freeway - BnJieen Rd to Springvale Rd 4.5 45 South Eastern Ar Leri.al upgrading 85 80 Alexandra Parade widening 100 100 Regional arterial road improvements completed Rural overtaking lanes (no. of sites) 22 16 Rural bridge replacements 8 6 National Highway M.anagement Development - progress towards completion (%) Western Ring Road - Maribyrnong section 95 95 Western Ring Road - airport sect.ion 50 50 Rallarat Bypass duplkat.ion - Woodmans Hill to Sunraysia Hwy 90 80 Length of National Highway mai ntained (km) 1040 1005 Number of bridges maintained 280 282 Road System Maintenance Length of road maintained (km) 21120 21155 Number of bridges maintained 2480 2476 Number of bridges upgraded and replaced 32 29 Resealing (% of sprayed scaled net\:vork excluding National Hwys) 9.2 9.7 Rehabilitation (% of network ex.eluding National Rwys) 0.8 0.9 19 Tr c and UseM ement icRoads proinotes the efficient and orderly movement of road Seventy ki lometres of rottLes were users and road freight through the improvem· ~ nt of traffic flow reviewed in Gcclong and Ballarat. In and the reduction of traffic congestion which costs Victorians $ t .8 Geelong, works included turning lanes, new signals and street lighting, whilst in billion each year. The organisation has been quick to implement Ballarat, proposals were developed for national uniform regulations which assist the transport industcy to kerblane sealing, roundabouts, parking operate more efficiently, aid safety and reduce costs. Motorists and traffic signals. have been ab1e to reduce their travel times this year with the Kerblane Management introduction of information technology which provides real time Program traffic information. The focus of this program is to reduce During the year significant milestones were achieved in improve congestion by extending clearway hours ments to traffic flow, urban traffic management systems, traffic on Melbourne's major traffic routes. This improves trnffic flow by opening up the information services, road freight efficiency and safe bus kerblanes. Associated lm[ftc works are operations. undertaken as part of this program bi consultation with councils, local lmDrovi ri Tr Ffit Fl w Principal Traffic RouLes. These reviews residents and owner/occupiers of identified the need for low-<:ost works commercial properties. mproved traffic flow will reduce and operational improvements such as business travel costs, enhance During 19~l5-96, the Kerblane Man I traffic signal work and improved street business opportunities and reduce agement Program implemented speci1ic lighting, line marking and signing. congestion. This is being achieved improvements on 139 km of routes, Works were carried oul along Bell Street, through the following programs. taking the tot.al length of routes treated in Manningham Road, Elgar Road and this fashion to 156 km. The key routes Principal Traffic Routes Warrigal Road with the objective of treated were Barkers Road, achieving reduttions in travel time of at Program Manningham Road, Willimnsons Road, least five per cent during business travel In 199!">-96, reviews were undertaken Elgar Road, Monash Highway, Wanigal periods. along one hundred kilometres of Road, Princes Highway East, Grimshaw The Kerhlane Management Program has impr()1Jed traffic flow in peak periods. 20 Bruce Hearn at the Traffic Control and Communication Centre, which has a centralised computer, monitoring more than 2000 traffic signals in metropolitan Melbourne and over 160 traffic signals in Victoria's provincial cities. Street, St Georges Road, Bell Street, VicRoads is able to respond more quickly work was carried out in conjunction with Chandler Highway, Mahoneys Road, to incidents with its world class freeway Monash University. Nicholson Street, Footscray Road, incident detection system. ll is operat.i.ng There has been commercial interest in Flemington Road, Melbourne Road, this product by private and public sector Millers Road, Docklands Highway, organisations and a marketing and distri Brunswick Road and the Western ·Roads is ahk to '' bution agreement is currently being Highway. nspond more qui(. l·d~ negotiated with plivatc industry. Incident Management to im.· idt•nts "ith its VicRoads achieved its target of restoring world class f reewm Urban Traffic normal functional operations within 50 incident r' •• , ·•«m M n Qlll! Pl\t ystem minutes for 85 per cent of traffic S)Ste '' Development of traffic management and incidents. Incident management control technology will ensure that services include the emergency freeway on the Tulhunarine Freeway, West Gate Victoria's Urban Traffic :Vlanagement breakdown service, on-road hazards, Freeway, Western Ring Road and the System continues to be leading edge. accident towing, traffic signal faults and South Eastern Arterial. During the year, VicRoads in association tow-aways. with the Roads and Traffic AutJ10rity of The detection system has been NSW, Philips Traffic and Engineering '.'lumber of traffic incidents 31217 developed further and has demonstrated Systems Pty Ltd and AWA Limited, was Average response time the potential for significant improve involved in preliminary work for the to an incident (in minutes) 20 ments in traffic flow. 'l:ne technique development of the next generation of Average time to clear an incident allows a computer to be programmed to area traffic c.ontrol systems. The syslem (in minutes) recognise accidents and incidents by will include the establishment of a Percentage of incidents cleared feeding in a range of information about centralised database of real time road within 50 minutes 85 previous incidents. This development and traffic i.nfonnation capable of being 21 Traffic and Rood Use Management accessed by internal and external users. Traffic Performance Monitoring 111e most significant initiative has The new system will enable VicRoads to The second full year of a major program involved the implementation of Drive manage increasing trnffic well into the of travel time monitoring- in the metropol Time. next decade by using the existing road itan area was completecl in 1995-96. 'n1e Drive 1ime capacity more effectively and efficiently. results arc being used by VicRoads and The VicRoads Drive Time system other road authorities to compare traffic Traffic Signals Maintenance provides motorists on the South Eastern performance in the main Australian cities The average cost of maintaining a set of Arterial with information on real time and identify where resources are most traffic signals reduced from about $4,000 traffic conditions, including predicted needed. in 1994-95 to $3,400 in 1995-96. Titis is travel times and traffic congestion, or due to efficiency improvements and This year's results showed a slight major incidents which cause intcrruir represents a productivity saving of Sl.6 improvement in the average travel speed tions lo traf.lic .Oow. The system, installed million a year. in Melbourne from 41.7 km to 42 km per in July 1995, is designed to maximise the hour. Overall performance in Melbourne Traffic Signals use of the freeway and alternative routes is comparable to Sydney but is not as by enabling motorists to make informed There are now 2,lH traffic signals good as in other St.ates. decisions about where to drive. connected to the computerised traffic An independent consultant conducted control system. With the addition of 66 Traffic Information before and after surveys which indicate traffic signals, during the year, 85 per Prv1(:e1> that the cost of Drive Time will be cent of all traffic signals in metropolitan recovered in under two years. Its Melbnurne operate more efficiently due Real lime information about traffic success has led to a decision to to better fault monitoring and a follow-up conditions has been provided to road implement the system across all 100 km maintenance program. users to assist them in making decisions about route choice, traffic and parking. of Melbourne freeways as funds become available. T Measured off peak traffic congestion in Melbourne was higher than in other Australian r.apital cities. The graph shows travel off peak period (3) in Melbourne is on average 0.43 minutes per kilometre. j Time delays from traffic conditions which have prevented travel at the speed limit. ! 1.0 min/km AMPeak I PMPcak 2 I OlfPeak 3 Q&______. AllDay 1 I' ------~ ~ 0.6 ¢ ....., ·······-· ...... 8 0 04 1 0~ 0.2 0.0 2 :{ 4 234 1234 1234 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3 4 vlC N~W QlD Wf\. &<\. ACT Aust.Av. 22 The benefit.-; of the Drive Time system are a reduction in delays due to increased diversions from the Arterial during incidents; a reduction in the number of incidems due to less stressful driving; early warning of incidents; improved decision making for trip planning and route selection; a reduction in traffic congestion and lower pollution levels; and increased use of the South Eastern Arterial during oH peak periods, which results in reduced traffic in adjoining arterial roads. p Drive Time, a world standard, sophisticated information system enables drivers to make informed decisions about traffic routes. Initiatives for intermodal and freight carrying freight and passengers, the ance witll the road laws. In Victoria, a vehicle operations are prov.iding lower expansion of the B-double network voluntary Mass Management Accred· transport cnsts, improved safety, and enabling more productive vehicles to itation Progrnm was commenced, as a assistance to Victoria's industries and travel on most commercial roads imd tlle pilot, to allow transport operators to businesses to enable them to be more increased use of super B-doubles which guarantee their vehicle mass limits. competitive in local and overseas means more freight carried by fewer Companies are accredited if they can markets. These benefits are also being trucks. Heavy vehicles up to 42.5 tonnes outline a proper. auditablc process which achieved through ongoing implementa· no longer require a permit; the weight ensures their vehicles comply with mass tinn of national reforms aimed at limit was previously 38 tonnes. limits. This efuninales the need for on· achieving uniformity of operating road checks. conditions, promoting increased compli· A simplified registration procedure now ance with road transport law through operales for transport operators across A comprehensive coinmunications prog greater operator responsibility and the country with registration charges ram introduced and explained tl1e improving intermodal fu1ks and on-road based on road wear. reforms to tl1e road transport industry. performance on strategic freight routes. Consistent licence categories have been During the past 12 months a number of Major effort this year was directed to the introduced along with a national additional road freight initiatives were National Heavy Vehicle Reforms and approach to defect notices, pren~gistra introduced to further increase productiv support for tl1e important work of the tion and roadworthiness standards. ity, improve safety and reduce environ· mental impacts. These initiatives include: Victorian Road FreightAdvisory Council. Road usf.rs will benefit from safety Heavy Vehicle Reforms measures incluiling improved restraint of • an extension to the operation of super loads, programs to increase scat belt B-doublcs grossing 65.5 tonnes Victoria was the first State to introduce usage amongst truck drivers and new between Webb Dock and Swanson all 10 reforms of tl1e heavy vehicle regulations for truck and bus driving Dock; reform package. These reforms will hours. A fatigue management scheme assist both the local road transport • issuing special permits, for loads has been introduced for all truck and bus industry and VicRoads to operate more above the legal limit, to reduce the drivers to reduce fatigue related efficiently and will aid safety and reduce number of trncks on the road and accidents. administration costs. support tlle efficient movement of The transport industry has, through the export oranges, bluestonc, aluminium Among the reforms are nationally agreed national reform program, been able to ingots and paper reels; and mass and dimension limits for vehicles take greater respo.n.sibilily for compli- 23 Traffic and Road Use Management • a one-off approval of a two trailer road The Council comprises government, train operation in Victoria, between industry and community representatives. Safety of the bus fleet in Victoria is being Irymple and Mildura. During the year the Council provided achieved by the implemention of a advice on a range of initiatives including: European, all-terrain mobile cranes were Quality Assured Bus Maintenance permitted to operate at a higher mass • the Heavy Vehicle Reform Package; system, which was introduced by limit of 12 tonne per axle; this brought • the operation of three axle trucks VicRoads, in co-operation with the Bus Victoria into line with world standards. towing a four axle dog trailer up to Proprietors Association Victorian Road Freight 49.5 tonnes on a trial basis; and More than half of Victoria's buses (2800 Adviso:ry Council • pennits for towing empty road train buses out of a total licensed fleet of 4800) The Victorian Road Freight Advisory dollies (a road train dollie is the draw now operate under the system. By June Council provides advice to the Minister bar and axles which hook two trailers 1996, 290 bus companies had obtained for Roads and Ports on the strategic together). quality accreditation. Since April 1996, development. planning, regulation and bus operators not covered by accredita The Council held five regional freight operation of road freight services in tion have been required to have their forums in Melbourne, Shepparton, Victoria. buses inspected every six months. By Traralgon, Ballarat and Mildura during April 1998, accreditation will be the year and issued its first regular mandatory. newsletter, Freight Council News. Traffic and Road Use Management Program Performance 199 .Q6 Program Objectives: To ensure the efficient and orderly movement of road users and freight Program Outputs Estimate Actual 1995-96 1995-96 Principal Traffic Routes agreed action plans (route km) 100 245 Clearway added/upgraded (lane km) 100 139 Signals maintained 2860 2822 Roads affected by traffic incidents operationally functional within 50 minutes (%) 85 85 Number of urban freeways with Drive Time installed (treatment of significant length of freeway) 1 1 Principal Bike Network Completed (km) 100 58 Bus Quality Assured Maintenance System (number of accredited operators ) 20 290 Victoria was the first state in Australia to introduce all ten reforms for heavy vehicles. 24 Furlonq Rd EXIT 1 km Road Safety major Government initiative, Safety First, involving VicRoads. Bicyclists, Pedestrians, Heavy Vehicles, AVictoria Police and the Transport Accident Commission Drugs and Occupant Protection. (TAC) was 1aunched in 1995. It builds on Victoria's record of Developments and activities for 1995-96 reducing the road toll. were as follows: A key component of VicRoads' road safety activity in 1995-96 has Road Safety been the elimination of blackspots to reduce road accidents and Management trauma which currently cost the community more than $1.2 billion each year. VicRoads was actively involved in natinnal road safety issues through consultation and co-operation with the Safety First the strategy with support from many National Road Transport Commission, organisations including the Royal Over the past 20 years road crashes in National Road Trauma Advisory Council, Automobile Club of Victoria, Monash Victoria have continued to decline wilh University Accident Research Centre and AUSTROADS and the Federal Office of road deaths reducing from over 1000 in Road Safety. An important omcome from the Royal Australasian College of the 1970s to around 400 in the 1990s. VicRoads' consultation with road safety Surgeons. Strategies producing this decline have agencies and organisations was the made Victoria a world leader in road Special committees and groups are preparation of annual road safety priori safety programs. In September 1995, the developing and overseeing the work nf ties progran1s which set out major issues Government released a new five year the key agencies. They include the Road for action, projects to be undertaken. road safety strate&ry called Safety First. It Safety Executive Group, Road Safety timing of implementation and agency aims to further reduce the incidence, Management Group. Road Safety responsibility. severity and cost of road crashes by Reference Group, Traffic Safety employing the six key strategies of Education Group, and Conununity Road Safe Roads research, coordination, education, Safety Councils. enforcement, promotion and engineer· Safety First emphasises the import::Uice Blackspots ing. of action in the following priority areas: During 1995-96, $7.3 million was VicRoads, the Victoria Police and the Drink Driving, Speeding, Fatigue, provided for the treatment of 99 TAC are responsible for implementing Restraint Wearing, Road Quality, Drivers blackspots at locations with high in High Risk Groups, Motorcyclists, accident rates. In urban areas the focus of improvements was traffic signal installa· lions, roundabouls, splitter islands, street lighting and other interse<-tion work. In ·· ..: rural areas shoulder sealing and edge lining, guard rail treatments and hazard removal were more common. The total expected benefits from these treatments over their estimated life of 10 to 20 years is $30 million, with a predicted saving of 1600 casualty accidents. • Treatments at locations with high accident rates have improved road safety for motorists and pedestrians. 26 Road Safety Four new bus testers were licensed of the drivers who tested over .05 during 1995-96, bringing the total to 24. changed their minds about driving home Occupant Protection Regular inspections of licensed buses after using the coin operated testers. A Regular VicRoads publications keep the through the Quality Assured pilolstudy began in May 1996to examine public informed about vehicle standards, Maintenance (QAJvl) system should how promotion affects drinkers' use of guidelines for the nmdification of ensure Victorian buses remain amongst the machines. vehicles, requirements for importing the sa:fesl in Auslralia. Speeding vehicles and building and towing trailers. Twenly-two seminars were conducted Local traffic precinct speed limits of 50 lnformation is also available on general across Victoria to improve the overall km/h were introduced to improve salety vehicle safety and occupant protection to standard of testers and to encourage and minimise the cost of applying lower assist consumers when buying new better communications between LVTs speed limits on residential streets. vehicles. This is part of a strategy of and VicRoads. :J.fore than 1800 testers Fatigue informed consumers encouraging and their staff attended. manufacturers to provide safety features VicRoads supported the operation of in all vehicles. Snfe Rorui U ers coffee break sites by the State Emergency Service and local volunteer Manufacturers are increasingly using Drink Driving groups on the Australia Day weekend, safety as a marketing tool; with almost all The Barwon Community Road Safety Easter and other public holidays. now offering anti-lock braking systems Council, funded by VicRoads. commis (ABS), airbags and advanced seatbelts Restraint Wearing sioned a study by the Monash University as either optional or standard equipment. During 1995-96, VicRoads conducted a Accident Research Centre into coin This has occurred without any change in survey into the extent of restraint operated breath testers and their ability legislative requirements and can be wearing by drivers and passengers. The to influence drivers planning to drive attributed to a shift in consumer survey found that 95 per cent of front home. The study found that 16 per cent attitudes. scat occupants and 90 per cent of rear Vehicle Roadworthiness VicRoads has responsibility for monitor ing the Licensed Vehicle Tester (LV'I) scheme. In 199f>-96, 137 investigations leading to sanctions were finalised, compared with 141 in 1994-95. 94.95 95-96 ··-,; Formal warnings issued 0 17 Bonds issued 30 80 licences suspended 93 31 Licences cancelled 18 9 The total number of licences now issued is 2422. Thirty-five Licensed Taxi Testers were authorised to carry out the Victorian Taxi Directorate's periodic taxi inspec tions throughout Victoria. • Educating young riders in safe riding practices is a priority for VicRoads. 27 Rood Safely During the year VicRoads continued to develop screening tests for older drivers which will identify those with visual, perceptual or cognitive impairments needing further professionitl assessment. Motorcycles A Motorcycle Safety Action Plan was developed during the year. Actions included a move to competency based training, removing anomalies in licensing, developing protective clothing/helmet standards, enforcing licensing, registration and riding require ments, improving tolerance between motorcyclists and other road users, and research. An important research project began in December 1995. It compares the charac teristics of 200 motorcyclists recently involved in crashes with riders without a crash history. 'l11e study will identify the contribution of risk factors resulting in • Jan Speas of VicRoads demonstrating the benefits ofcorrectly fitted and used child death or serious injury. It will be restraint units which have been effective in improving the safety ofyoung passen completed by May 1997. gers. Bicycle Safety seat passengers wore restraints. Wearing range of actions to minimise risk to this Bike Wise, the new Vktorian cyclists' rales on rural highways were slightly most vulnerable group. It will lead to a handbook, was released in August 1995. higher than they were in provincial cities, new·novice driver management plan. It is a comprehensive guide to safe with Melbourne having the lowest rates. Older and Impaired Drivers cycling which includes information about 111e lowest wearing rate was 82 per cent, VicRoads developed SafeDrive, a one day choosing a bike, road rules. riding and among 2() to 39 year old rear seat passen road safety awareness seminar for older traffic skills, avoiding accidents and gers. drivers. SafeDrive stresses the link many other topics. ll is designed for primary school students, their parents Up to 30 per cent of drivers and passen between capable driving and good health and teachers. VicRoads provided support gers killed were not wearing a seat belt. and has lo dale, been presented in nine key centres. to the State Bicycle Committee by Drivers in High Risk Age funding police training courses and the Groups The inclusion oi 'fitness to drive' informa Bicycle Victoria information and safety Despite a 43 per cent reduction in young tion to help doctors assess driving ability telephone service. The Victolia Police driver accidents since 1989, this age was proposed for inclusion in the Safe Cycle campaign resulted in greatly group remains overrepresented in the education programs of the Royal increased police contact with cyclists statistics; this is especially so for those Australasian College of General through warnings, issuing of traffic who are in their first year of driving. Practitioners. infringement notices and prizes for safe behaviour. OU1er activity included the A Young Driver Research Strategy has Share the Road campaign addressing been developed which will produce a motorist/cyclist conflict. A public 28 Rood Sofely information hotline was established and Travel On, launched in May 1996, was Community Activities regional bicycle forums organised. produced by VicRoads on behalf of the During the year more than Public Transport Corporation. This 150 Pedestrians primary school resource promotes community-based programs were During the year, 'Safe Routes to School' appropriate behaviours, skills and undertaken by t11e 20 Community Road and 'Walk with Care' prognlllls were attitudes conducive to safe and responsi Safety Councils across Victoria. These implemented in municipalities with high fitting use of ble travel around buses, trams and trains. included the correct and pedestrian accident rates. They combine child restraints, promotion of public advocacy, education and local engineer The School Crossing Supervisors breathtesters to gauge blood alcohol ing treatments. Preliminary results of Handbook was reviewed and updated. content levels and driver fatii.,rue these accident reduction programs are Each supervisor in the State is provided awareness campaigns. A review of the encouraging but more evaluation is with a handbook which includes informa programs showed that many received necessary to confirm the initial findings. tion on appropriate procedures, regula· extensive media coverage and provided tions, hours of work and equipment. Drugs and Driving valuable information to the public. In May 1995, the Parliamentary Road Motorvation was redeveloped. This is an Safety Committee invited submissions interactive multi-media educational from individuals and organisations for its program for young pre-drivers linked to the school curriculum and the licensing Inquiry into the Efiects oI Dru~i\ {Cther system, with a supporting CD than Alcohol) on Road Safety in Victoria. ROM. Evidence was presented by VicRoads. It CrashStats, an innovative CD ROM indicated that, although the information containing all reported road crash statis available on non-alcoholic drugs and tics in Victoria from 1991 to 1995, was road safety is limited, the involvement of developed by VicRoads and tested during drugs in road crashes is more than half 1995. It will be available for schools and that of alcohol. The potenlial saving from municipalities during 1996. reducing drug-related crashes in Victoria is approximately S143 million. The road toll could be reduced by about one-eighth oad atalitie~ if successful counter-measures could be Victoria's road fatality rates were lower than aJl other States identified and implemented. Road fatalities per 100,000 population Education and Schoo's 20 Number kill•d per 100,000 population .. ··- ---·-·----- During the year, VicRoads developed the course advice for traffic safety education. 15. This advice will enable schools to .... ·-·-··------~- become more self-sufficient in providing high quality traffic safety education. The redevelopment of the highly successful Victorian initiative, Bike Ed, into a national Hike Ed program for primary schools was commenced during the year. Funding for the redevelopment was provided by the Federal Office of l:illV \Jl 'Ir.I '!{J '\I') :99.'l '!II "92 '91 '94 lWJ 'n 'W 1.(3 ~1 11100 \Jl '!12 'VJ '!11 UVJ 'ill '11<: \e '91 19!i!O '91 '9'~ !6 \\I It' Road Safety. BP is sponsoring the VIC NSW QLD WA SA T'AS ACT project. 29 Road Sofe.t-y The Third International Conference on lniury Program Objectives: The goal of t11e Road Safety Program is lo achieve a sustainable Pre ~nti " nd ntr I reduction in the number and severity of road crashes, and tlle resultant cost of road Melbourne hosted the 111ird Inter trauma. national Conference on Injury Pre Program Outputs vention and Control from 19-22 February 1996. The conference was the third in a se1ies of global injury control Estimate Actual conferences conducted under the 1995-96 1995-96 auspices of lhe World Health Rnad Safety Strategies & Co-ordination Organisation. Annual fatalities 375 426* Serious casualties (includes fatalities) 6400 6500* National Road Ruf ec Fatalities per 100 million km 0.89 0.97* Fatalities per 100,000 population 8.4 9.5* VicRoads participated in the develop Serious injuries per 100 million km 15 15* ment oI a set of national traffic regula- tions by AUSTROADS and the National Safer Roads Road Transport Commission. VicRoads Expenditure on 'Hlackspot/Blacklink' treatments ($million) 6.9 7Jm* will manage the change to agreed Number of sites treated t:~o 99* national regulations once they have been Expected Benefit/Cost Ratio of'Blackspot/Blacklink' programs 13.0 6.5* finalised Safer Vehicles Percentage of fatal accidents in which mechanical defects are a causative factor 1.5 0.7* Deaths per fatal accident 1.1 1.1* Serious casualties per accident 1.2 1.2* Safe Road Users Pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 population 1.4 Moton,ydists fatalities per 10,000 motorbikes 6.4 1. Truck fatalities per 100 million kilometres 2.fi • Provisional figures A cyclist, under the E] \iVhitten Bridge, is on a section of the 29 km Western Ring Road bike path. 30 Registration and Licensing Services icRoadst goal is to provide effective and efficient nationally and mark all licence tests through text, Vconsistent registration and licensing services. These services J.,rraph.ics, audio, video and touch screen are provided to 3.1 million Victorian motorists driving 3.5 million response. It is designed to be user friendly for those licence applicants who vehicles. In additiont the registration and licensing business may have minimal experience with collects $1.4 billion 1·evenue on behalf of the State Treasury and computer technology. the Transport Accident Commission and provides essential vehicle The CLT incorporales a hazard perceir and driver infonnation services to other agencies. Services are tion test (HP1), developed by VicRoads, delivered to customers through the VicRoads regional service which uses motion video to present real network and agencies. scenes involving traffic situations. Registration and Licensing services ensure the competency of Licence applicants are tested for their licensed drivers, promote the safety of the vehicle fleet and ability Lo detecl potentially hazardous manoeuvres. It is the first driver ~est to support the enforcement of Victoria's road laws. i I have a demonstrated correlation between ' both driver experience and previous n recent years, significant progress has During the year, VicRoads expanded the crash record. As a consequence, scores I been achieved in simplifying business use of technology to improve customer on the HPT may be used as an indicator rules, improving customer service, service, implemented nationally agreed of future crnsh risk in driver licence introducing national standards and initiatives, offered new or revitalised applicants. business rules and improving business products and services, improved CLT is available in 16 languages, all with efficiency. Today, VicRoads is able to business effidenq• and upgraded offices. audio support using standard telephone provide even greater accessibility, handsets. This greatly assists test flexibility and convenience to customers. New Technology comprehension, particularly for app· licants with limited literacy skills. It also Jn 1995-96, YicRoads continued to apply saves $150,000 a year on interpreter new technology to the delivery of costs. registration and licensing services through the introduction of comput The potential for corruption and cheating erised licence testing and the develop is minimised because questions arc ment of the instant licence system. randomly selected by the computer. CLT VicRoads also examined the potential of also marks the test automatically, electronic service delivery using kiosks. eliminating the need for supervisors to carry out this task, and provides Computerised Licence Testing (CLT) feedback to applicants indicating areas of study that need more attention. During 1995-96, VicRoads completed the development and began the implemcnta· Upgrading CLT at the trial sites of tion of its Computerised Licence Testing Geelong and Camberwell Registration system. It is the first, high quality and Licensing offices was completed in interactive, multi-media testing system to February 1996, and installation of the be used by government authorities in system at the remaining 38 sites, Australia and the only system in the throughout Victoria, was completed by world to incorporate a hazard perception April. Paper based tests will continue to test The system, developed collabora· be used by some VicRoads agencies and lively with Victoria University of accredited providers until the new • Computetised Licence Testing uses Technology (VlJl), uses slate-of-the-art technology is extended to these sites interactive, multi-media technology. technology to generate, deliver, monitor over the next twelve months. 32 Re9istrolion and licensing Services • Instant licence technology prodt,ces high-quality, attractive and secure licences. Electronic Seivice Delivery New and Revitalised Slimline Plates VicRoads has been involved in the Products New slimline registration plates are now development of the 'whole of govern available to motorists. The narrower During the year, VicRoads introduced a ment' Electronic Service Delivery (ESD) plates complement design lrends in number of new products as part of its network being established by the De motor vehicles which con.linue towards ongoing program of improving customer partment of the Premier and CabineL low riding and aerodynamic cars. A<:. well service. Services will be provided in a number of as satisfying the aesthetic needs of forms; initially, multi-media kiosks and Instant Licence drivers, the slimline plates also reduce the Internel will complement existing The development of the instant licence vehicle drag and increase fuel efficiency. customer service delivery arrangements system was completed in June 1996 with Victorian Rider offering maximum choice to customers implementation to begin in July. '01is The Minister for Roads and Ports at the lowest cost. $7.5 million project provides customers launched the second edition of Victorian at VicRoads offices with a sharp, clear VicRoads proposes to make registration Rider in June 1996. This handbook for photo licence within minutes. The new renewal, driver history records, demerit learner riders was prepared in consulta licence card incorporates improved point records, vehicle security register tion with the motorcycle industry and security features and will be one of the certificates, licence test bookings and has been re-designed to refle.ct changes most tamper-proof licences in the world. change of address services available in riding practices. Now in full colour, the The inconvenience previously experi through electronic kiosks. handbook includes additional instruc enced by some customers who needed to tions and explanatory diagrams on how It is expected that an ESD kiosk service re-visit VicRoads Lo correct faulty to become a more skillful motorcycle will commence operation during 1996-97. photographs or wiclear signatures will rider with emphasis on safe riding be eliminated, resulting in an annual practices and information on the effects saving of $120,000. of alcohol and fatigue. - 33 Registration and licer:sin9 Service.; Bus and Truck Handbook registration periods have been National Driver Llcence TI1e fourth edition of the Bus and Tritck introduced to assist heavy vehicle Classifications Hand.book was published in September operators to spread their cnsts. New vehicle licence categories. introduced in Victoria in September 1995 to reflect changes brought about by National Exchange of Vehicle the nationai heavy vehicle reforms, Driver Information System 1995, are an Australia-wide initiative to inducting new licence classifications and (NEVDIS) implement. common and simplified graduated licensing. The Handbook now VicR.oads has been actively involved in categories for drivers of vehicles above has explanatory colour diagrams to developing NEVDCS, a system that will 4.5 tonnes. Professional bus and truck supplement and enhance the text. allow the electronic transfer of driver and drivers will benefit from the uniform vehicle information between all States standards in licence classification and New Registration and and Territories. It is exped.ed to deliver improved efficiency in administration of Licensing Offices national community savings of $20 heavy vehicle licensing. The licensing million a year through improved national proces~ has been graduated to allow Warragul law enforcement and vehicle safety, drivers to gain experience with Jess The Minisler officially opened the new reduced stolen vehicle fraud and by complex vehicles before operating articu Warragul office in June 199fi. The minimising revenue losses. NEVDIS is lated vehicles. No fees are charged for purpose built office provides multiple expected to be operational by late 1997. interstate licence transfers, cutting transaction customer service points to maximise efficiency and reduce waiting times and has the latest registration and licensing technology incl uding comput erised licence testing. Burwood East Subsl.anlial work was completed on the new Tally Ho office at Burwood East ., I The office incorporates the latest in registration and licensing office facilities, and is a showcase for the use of technol ogy in the testing and i%1ling of licences. The site of the office on the corner of two l.i major arterial roads - Burwood Highway and Springvale Road - was selected Lo I provide easy access for customers. National Initiatives National Heavy Registration Charges On 1 January 1996, as part of the heavy vehicle refo rm package, nationally consistent registration charges for I vehicles over 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle ! mass (GVM) were introduced in Victoria. By allowing higher axle masses, the new charges have removed the need for mass I limit increase permits. Three-month • A customer using the improved queueing facility at the new Burwood East office. 34 Registration and Licensir.9 Services operating costs for d rive~ and improving rules and procedures to enable staff to Efficient Setvice Vic ~oads' service to the transport provide customers with quick and VicRoads, as measured through national industry. efficient inquiry information and ensures performance indicators, continued to that customers receive accurate and deliver its vehicle registration and driver Improving Business reliable service. licensing services efficiently. Performance Driver Assessment In four of tl1e five measures, the results Efficiency improvement initiatives Almost 50 per cent of all heavy vehicle show an impressive reduction in costs during 1995-96 have included: licence assessments were conducled by compared with the previous year. The Lhe l'.I organisations that offer heavy marginal increase in the unit cost of Telephone Setvices vehicle training and testing in Victoria. vehicle registration was due mainly Lo a Customers who have to re-register their Approximately 80 per cent of all learner changed system in distributing costs. vehicles at VicRoads' offices, can now permit and licence applicants were make a booking through the Central Call processed by the State's six accredit.etl Centre. This is one ol the largest govern motorcycle training and lesting ment call centres in Melbourne, handling providers. about 40,00 PARS, an electronic document system, Vehicle Registration 18.59 -7.9 has now been implemented across the Driver Licensing 50.3 -15.0 VicRoads' registration and licensing network. Ct processes policies, business Based on 1994-95 AUSTROADS national performance indicators. 35 Registration and Licensing Services Cost of Maintaining Records Registration and Licensing Program Performance 1995-96 The unit cost of maintaining vehicle registrations and driver licences in Victoria (S6.74 per transaction) compares favournbly with 0ther Program Objectives States and Territories. To provide efficient and effective customer oriented services for registration of vehicles, licensing of 25 $ per Record drivers and the collection of revenue. Program Outputs 20 1995-96 Vehicle Registrations 15 Registration Renewal 3,171,000 I II New Registration 176,000 !. 10 Secondhand Registration 135,700 Registration Transfer 772,200 6.74 Boat Registrations i Registration Renewal 109,300 I New Registration 8,900 :-:I Registration Transfer 11,100 l l\SW VIC QLD SA WA TAS :.'ff ACT l Appointments I Based on 1994-95 AUSTROADS national performance Licence/Registration Bookings 272,700 indicators. Licence Testing Written Tests 273,466 Practical Drive Tests 120,300 Staff Productivity Practical Skill Tests 15,552 Since 1991-92, the number of registered vehicles per Registration and Driver Licensing Licensing staff member has increased from 2877 to 4130. A similar Learner Permit 93,800 increase can be seen with licensed drivers. First Issue Licence 104,300 Ucence Renewal 494,300 l Duplicate Licence 58,300 ,l 5 ... '!!~usm~------·-···. Regulation Functions ' - l{cgistered vehicles per R&L staff member Unregistered Vehicle Permits 72,400 Mass & Dimension Permits 9,200 l 4 Taxi Licences 3,700 Log Books 28,800 3 2877 Roadworthy Certificate Books 2,000 • Driver Certificates 3,200 Vehicle Securities Register 25n 2629 .:.2______···--··-·· ..... Certificates Issued 110,000 - Licensed drivers per R&L staff member Number Plates Issued 411,700 I I 1991/92 1992/93 1993/94 1994/95 1995/96 I • Angela Wright, Senior Customer Service ! Officer, serves a customer at Burwood East the newest VicRoads office. It incorporates the latest technology in registration and licensing services I including instant licences and computerised licence testing. 36 -- Enhancing the Environment icRoads recognises the importance of the enviromnent by Platypus Prosper incorporating it into all aspects of road system planning and V Seven platypus were discovered in the management. During 1995-96 VicRoads released its environment Mullum Mullum Creek, during construc strategy. VicRoads' commitment to the environment has been tion of the Ringwood Bypass and exemplified by its support of a platypus conservancy project in the proposed extension of the Easlern Mullum Mullum Creek, conservation and landscaping of the Freeway from Springvale Road to historic Kororoit Creek Bridge, support of community 'Adopt a Ringwood. VicRoads and the Australian Platypus Conservancy formed a partner Highway' projects and e..xtensive community consultation on the ship to study the plalypus population and environmental issues associated with current and proposed to help ensure that the impacl of t11e road construction activities. construction on the platypus habitat was minimised. In ~ovember 199:J, a urban roads are being considered, future VicRoads' Environment Conservancy report fotmd that all the air quality is determined to ensure Strategy platypus were in good physical condition compliance with the Government's air icRoads has released an Envir and prospering. quality objectives. Vonment Strategy which addresses traffic noise, air quality, flora and fauna, To preserve ecosystems and minimise Calder Bridge aesthetics, water quality, heritage and the destruction of trees, VicRoads audits Restoration hazardous goods. road projects to ensure they are subject Constructed in 1861, lhe Kororoit Creek to the corn~ct levels of environmental Bridge is one of the oldest surviving road The Strategy specifically addresses the scrutiny; commissions specialist bot issue of air pollution by working with anical and biological surveys to bridges in Victoria and is classified by lhe National and State agencies lo develop delennine the importance of natural flora National Trust. During eonstrm.,tion oI and introduce noise and emission and fauna on road reservations; and the Gap Hill section of the Calder standards for new and in-service develops road side managemenl plans for Freeway, VicRoads took action to preserve lhe bridge and implemented a vehicles. Jn addition, when major new all major roads under its control. plan, developed in association with local The Stratei.,ry also recognises the community groups and municipalities, to importance of Aboriginal and heritage restore the natural setting for this sites by commissioning specialist archeo historic bridge through landscaping and logical surveys. tree planting. Implementing the Strategy During 199fl-96, VicRoads reviewed road Landscaping on the contract documents to ensure contrac Eastern Freeway tors comply with all environmental A team of architects, landscape architects legislation; promulgated guidelines for and ecologists worked with residents and the conduct of archcological surveys; special interest groups to develop and developed draft guidelines for concepts for the landscape and landform community consultation. of the Eastern Freeway widening and In addition, guidelines for the prepara extension. It is proposed to create two tion of environmental management plans contrasting landscapes, the formal urban were commenced and road surface road environment between the noise wearing courses, which minimise traffic walls, and the natural valley environment noise, were introduced. beyond the noise walls. • Environmental engineering at the Western Ring Road. 38 To highlight the architecturally designed noise walls, within the roadway, formal planting arrangements of trees, shrubs and grasses complement the coloured concrele walls and the curved semi enclosed perspex walls through form, and texture. Beyond the noise walls and mounds the landscape assumes the character of the natural valley. Visual continuity is achieved through the use of indigenous vegetation in both the road and valley landscapes. Construction of major wetlands downstream from the Koonung and .Bushy Creeks involved extensive aquatic plantings providing habitat for native birds and wildlife. A curvilinear timber boardwalk provides access across ll1e area. • Dr Geof/Williams of the Australian Platypus Conservancy with a platypus from the Mullum Mullum Creek on the Eastern Freeway. Adopt a Highway Scheme provide a valuable addition to town was jointly opened by the Minister for beautification schemes being developed Roads and Ports and the Minister for VicRoads has continued to support tlte in the main business areas by local Conservation and Environment. This 'Adopt a Highway' scheme during government bridge will provide access to the city 1995-96. Under the scheme, interested from the south-eastern suburbs. Cyclists groups undertake to care for a section of Bicycles can now ride from Jells Park in the cast to a highway by collecting litter, tree Melbourne on a continuous bicycle planting and grass cutting. VicRoads VicRoads recognises that cyclists and route. issues permits to the groups and their needs arc an important part of arranges insurance cover for those managing the road system. During the VicRoads sponsored the 1995 Great involved. year, VicRoads continued to work with Victorian Bike Ride in early December, the State Bicycle Committee to which involved more than 3,000 cyclists The City of Greater Bendigo has been an implement the Principal Bicycle riding from Horsham to Melbourne. The enthusiastic supporter of the scheme, Network, which is 3,:iOO km of existing ride encourages safe cycling practices and actively . promoted it amongst and proposed on-road and off-road among young riders in particular. community groups. Schemes also bicycle routes in the Melbourne operate for all major roads leading into The State Bicycle Committee conducted metropolitan area. Bendigo including the Calder, Midland, forums to encourage bike use in regional Mcivor and Northern Highways. The More than $1.5 million was spent by Victoria. A series of seminars focusing Maiden Gully - Marong length of the VicRoads in constructing and upgrading on the tourism, local government and Calder Highway, adopted by the Maiden bike paths in 1995-96. Work continued industry aspects of the 'Victoria for Gully Marong Lions Club, was opened by on the 29 km off-road bike path joining Bikes' strategy was also organised. The the Minister in 1995. Permits have also Broadmeadows to Laverton North along first of these was held in May, and been issued elsewhere in the State. the Western Ring Road. provided those in the tourism industry with important ideas on how to profit In October 1995, the bridge joining the 'Adopt a Highway' lengths are generally from bike related tourism. established at the gateway to towns and Yarra and Gardiners Creek bike paths 39 Optimising Business Efficiency icRoads continues to improve its efficiency through the OH&S requirements m·e being met. All V implementation of technology and best practice, and the contractors who tender, must submit development of its staff to meet new business requirements. both a site specific safety plan and outline their safety systems for assessment and approval. Our Peopfe found permanent work before finishing By implementing this new auditing their training, while the remaining system, VicRoads has been able to audit 1 TicRoads recognises the crucial role trainees were employed within three all its business areas for the :first time, to V its people play in enabling it to meet months of completing the prognun. document the level of OH&S compliance lhe challenges of an increasingly and provide feedback where improve complex and rapidly chm1i.,ring business Occupational Health and Safety ment is required. environment All staff are encouraged to (OH&S) accept accountability for developing As part of VicRoads' commitment to Highlights of the year's activities were: relevant capabilities by taking advantage minimising the human and financial • WorkCover costs being reduced by 28 of a wider range of development opportu costs of workplace injury and illness, a per cent over the previous year; nities. number of innovative workplace based systems were developed lo educate • VicRoads received the Excellence and Two important achievements in 1995-96 managers and employees in the Innovation award for Best Safety were, the preparation of a VicRoads fundamentals of OH&S. These include Management System (fransport and Human Resource Development Strategy; the responsibilities imposed by statute Storage) from the Victorian Health and the introduction of a broader range and Corporation policy and the identifica and Safety Organisation; and of management and personal develop tion and elimination of safety hazards. • more than 500 managers and staff ment training to improve performance All work places are now being audited by attending Occupational Health and and adaptability. the OH&S group at least once each year Safety training programs during the Other achievements included the to ensure corporation and legislative year. delivery of 118 courses in Melbourne involving 1481 participants and the delivery oI 36 courses throughout I' Victoria involving 513 participants. I Graduate and Trdinee 1,1 Programs VicRoads employed 18 graduates in the I engineering and business/commerce I disciplines as part of its recruitment progrrun. An 18-month rotation program provides them with work and personal development experience in various business areas. VicRoads, in conjunction .,,,.;th the then Federal Department of Employment Education and Training, conducted a second trainee program in registration and licensing, which provides up to 12 months work experience and training for • Road Safety's DimiAsimakidis, is reviewing VicRoads' innovative CrashStats CD 20 mature age, long-term unemployed ROM which contains all reported road crash statistics in Victoria from 1991 to people. Seventy per cent oI trainees 1995. 40 O,otimising Business Efficiency Employee Relations Sector Management Course Private Sector The major achievements during the year conducted by the Victoria University Partnership were: of Technology. '!nose who complete VicRoads contracts out a significant the course receive the Graduate • the development of a Common proportion of its many activities. During Certificate of Public Sector Man Conditions Agreement which will the year, VicRoads continued to identify agement and a credit of four subjects increase workplace efficiency opportunities to improve the effective towards a Master of Business through the consolidation of several delivery of products and services by Administration. awards and agreements; outsourcing to the private sector. • streamlining of classification, sel Competition Policy Further changes in service delivery ection and appeal processes through arrangements during 1995-96 included In April 1995, Victoria signed an the implementation of a computer the outsourcing of annual bridge agreemenl to implement National tracking system which resulted in an construction inspections and the Competition Policy and Related Reforms 18 per cent improvement in expansion of the Dealer Certification over the next five years. 1bese reforms turnaround time; Scheme to include secondhand vehicles aim to improve the competitiveness of and motorboats. By certifying dealers, • greater utilisation of casual and part the Australian economy through the lhe scheme allows buyers to register time employment to improve cust progressive removal of barriers to their boat or car at the time of purchase omer service; and inlernational competition. providing improved customer service • the payment of the final two, 1.5 per VicRoads' action was taken on four fronts and reducing administrative cosls. cent salary increases negotiated in the to ensure compliance with the agreed Approximately 180,000 vehicles and Enterprise Agreement of 1995, as the reform timetable. These actions were: boats were registered through the objectives of the agreement were scheme, generating some $2.3 million in • a competition policy audit to ensure achieved. revenue this financial year. that practices comply with the Equal Employment competition code; Opportunity Regional Service • a review of relevant legislation to VicRoads has a continuing commitment Delivery identify potential restrictions to to equal opportunity principles and competition; During the year, considerable proi.,iress practice. was made in improving consistency and • a review of functions to ensure separa Work in this area during the year service delivery standards across tion of policy, contrru..'t mmiagement included: VicRoads' seven regions. A major review and regulatory functions from of regional services issues was • development and implementation of commercial functions, and of competi undertaken by Price Waterhouse and the new equal opportunity and harass tive elements from natural monopoly principal recommendations were ment free work environment policies elements; and in accordance with the new Victorian addressed by small task-forces led by Equal Opportunity ALt; • identification of business activities senior regional personnel. Initiatives appropriate for the application of which have been implemented include: • development and implementation of a Model II of the competitive neutrality • introduction of new performance new equal employment opportunity models by the end of June 1997. measures for regisrration, licensing and sexual harassment grievance A compliance program was developed and transport safety services ; procedure. Written in plain English, and an implementation program the procedure simplifies the process • introduction of benchmarking of key commenced. of reporting and resolving grievances; procedures and costs to identify and and foster best practice; and • sponsorship of six women employees to enable them to attend the Public 41 Optimising B!isiness Ei!iciency • lhe third party accreditation of a A se1ies of twenty-nine national perfor- The results have been improved Quality System for VicRoads' Spray mance indicators was developed to targeting of road maintenance expendi- Sealing business. measure the performance of the road tu re. system and road organisations in Approaches to Best Australia. Use of Technology Practice Performance was measured and Infonnation Management and reported against nineteen of the indica VicRoads is committed to developing Technology best practice performance in the quality tors cove1ing road safety, travel limes. VicRoads has realised a number of signi!~ road construction and maintenance, the and delivery of its programs and icant achievements over the past five environment, and registration and services. years through the usc of information licensing. During the year, quality assurance technology. It has also achieved cost systems were refined, maintained and In the series of published indicators, the savings through. outsourcing of informa implemented to align with the require performance of Victoria's road system tion technoloi..'Y (IT) service delivery i ments of the appropriale international and VicRoads was generally favourable functions, the adoption of corporate Quality Assurance St::mdard, ISO 9000. compared with other States. standards for the use of n; and establish : ! ing clear business area acc.ountabilitics. Third party certification to this standard Financial Activities was achieved by: Benchmarking A new VicRoads information technology VicRoads has been the lead agency in an strategy called "it@vr", was released in • Bituminous Surfacing Operations; lI Australia-wide project to benchmark 1 June 1996 and re.fleets the Government's • the Design Department; and cnrporate financial activities. This project information technology priorities. This was established with State roads authori • the Land Information and Survey strategy sets directions and fT initiatives ties and Transit :'Jew Zealand. During Department. to be adopted in achieving future service 1995-96 corporate activity cost for each improvements and cost savings over the Certification will assure customers that participating agency was reported; next tl1ree years. It also describes how systems are in place to improve levels of specific strengths and weaknesses of VicRoads aligns with, and supports, key service. programs for each of the participating Government IT directions, policies and Twenty-one business areas in VicRoads road authorities were documented and initiatives. conducted a self-assessment of their recommendations on how the gaps can Program and Resources performance against Australian Quality be closed were agreed. Management Systems (PARMS) Award criteria. The self-assessment VicRoads will continue to pursue world PAJ:(MS is a single point data entry measured the extent to which resources class financial management by management system for program and were effectively utilised. Improvement comparing and improving its perfor resource infonnation. It has successfully plans will be implemented over the mance with best practice in three key completed its second full year of coming year. areas of Accounts Payable, Payroll, and operation and has provided reports on financial management, task manage National Performance Accounts Receivable. Other financial Indicators activities will be reviewed in the future. ment, supply and human resources/· payroll. Significant advances and dev VicRoads has played a lead role in the Benchmarking Service Delivery elopments in the use of the system development and implementation of a Benchmarking of main road mainten include the introduction of Payroll, the National Performance Management ance, undertaken by local government, Westpac processing interface and excess ! Framework comprising a role statement, was refined during the year. For the first fees and refunds system interface. Other • a set of outcomes required by stakehold time the benchmarks were published and developments include: ers and a set of performance indicators provided to all councils to aid perfor aimed at assessing performance against • establishing a Treasury financial 1 mance management and to assist in the I each of these outcomes. management system interface; ! VicRoads program development process. I 42 O,otim!sing Busine5s [fficiency • introduction of municipal claims Research and material was assessed as being the processing; Development most apprnpriate in rocky soils, and a trial carried out on a test section • electronic autl1orisation lo purchase; VicRoads encourages innovation in all its alongside the Tullamarine Freeway is activities, and promotes research and • establishing a forward purchasing now being monitored. agreement function; and development through funding of specific projecls. During 1995-96 the priority • Studies of corrosion in the reinforcing • data sourcing for the Executive research areas were reviewed and sleel of concrele bridges over salt Information System. expanded, with new areas including, road waler led to the development of Executive Information System safety for high-risk groups (aged and comprehensive specifications to slow Vic.Roads has developed a screen-based impaired drivers and motorcyclists), and the corrosion rate. Monitoring Executive Information System (EIS) high-risk factors (fatigue, drugs and equipment was embedded in a new designed to provide executives with driving), improving the economics of bridge on the :\lepean Highway over access to critical, strategic and mad surface maintenance, occupational the Patterson River lo improve the operalional information, via their desk health and safety in road construction effectiveness of the specifications. top computers. The EIS makes belter use and maintenance, and reducing • \.\'hole of life cosli.ng methodologies of existing data held by corporate pollutants from roads and traffic. for heavy duty road pavements were systems, saves time in accessing and A total of $2.6 million was allocated to 38 reviewed, covering construction, analysing information, and provides a projects. Some results are listed below. maintenance and the residual single source of consistent. accurate data pavement value at the end of the • Traffic signals which detect slow or for all executives. analysis period. An improved method, quick moving pedesllians and adjust During lhe year the finance profit and using the equivalent annual total cosl the crossing lime accordingly were loss, and human resources information of the pavement, has been adopted to shown to reduce vehicle traffic delays modules were rolled oui and specifica ensure the most cost-effective without affecting pedestrian safety. A tions for a program monitoring module pavement type is selected, and aligned second trial has commenced to were completed. Another three modules v,.ith other State road authorities. confirm the results. will be completed during 1996-97, further • A laboratory study determined the • Capabilities of learner and newly enhancing what is already a leading edge time within which road pavement licensed drivers were examined, syslem. material (crushed rock mixed "With leading to the development of Internet cement or cement blended with other guidelines for the effective prepara VicRoads established an Internet Home malerial) should be compacted to tion nf learner drivers for safe solo Page during the year. It provides informa achieve the required pavement driving. A trial and evaluation of tl1e tion on registration and licensing, road strength. The loss of strength due to guidelines will commence in 1996-97. safety, traffic conditions and the manage delaying compaction after mixing was ment of the Victorian road system. It also • Levels of visual and cognitive percep quantified. It was also shown that enables those who read the Home Page tion were examined to determine the crushed rock mixed with lime and to provide feedback comments. VicRoads minimum capabilities necessary for a granulated blast furnace slag (a waste has developed an implementation plan person to drive safely. "Fitness to product) was less time sensitive than for the Internet which includes interac drive" tests are now being developed the cement-based binders for tivity and electronic service delivery. for people with visual or cognitive compaction to the required strength. impairment, and the vision tests are A technical note was issued to the VicRoads Internet address is ready for trial. road construction industry. http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au • Overseas methods to reduce cracking • Field trials were completed to rehabil of road pavements caused by itate heavy-duty asphalt pavements by expansive soils were studied. The recycling the existing pavement melhod of injecting stabilising material. An existing asphalt surfaced 43 Optimising Business Efficiency granular pavement was successfully and other organisations both in Australia project in partnership with the Australian recycled as a cement,bound sub-base, and overseas. VicRoads undertakes Road Research Board and Rust PPK Ltd with new asphalt base layers placed external projects to provide economic to create a road safety strategy for on top. Th.is method produces a deep advantages to Victorian enterprises by Heilongjiang Province in northern strength pavement which can be used supporting their business development China. VicRoads developed the road on highly trafficked roads. opportunities overseas. safety strategy. In the past two years, the number of Other projects involved the provision and Ethnic Communications external projects increased from two to technological transfer of knowledge and During the year, VicRoads spent nineteen. products for vehicle registration and driver licensing, corporate structures $180,000 on services for clients from non During 1995-96, fifteen projects were and strategies and for road construction English speaking backgrounds. These undertaken in eleven countries at a value and maintenance management. services were for interpretation and to Vic'Roads of $1 million . translations of licence and driver testing. In 1995-96, fifteen significant overseas Projects included: The computerised licence test, which delegations were received by VicRoads. Fiji: was introduced in ::v.Iarch 1996, is Supervision of stage two of the Fiji available in 16 languages including Coroorate Services Upgrade Program, including training in " English. 111ey are Arabic, Cambodian, Program bridge and road maintenance practices. Chinese, Croatian, German, Greek, The objectives of the Corporate Services Italian, Laotion, Macedonian, Polish, Kyrgyzstan: Program are to provide: Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, 111rotigh the United Nations, VicRoads Turkish and Victuamese. This initiative assisted the Government in developing • accurate, timely and informative is in line with the Government's multilin and introducing a road taxation system. advice and replies to correspondence gual technology-based information received by the Chief Executive and Bhutan: services. the Minister for Roads and Ports; Development of a new Land Transport The Viclorian Traffic Handbook is and Road Safety Authority, including the • accurate and timely property informa available in 12 languages including drafting of new legislation for the regula tion to existing and prospective I English. They are Arabic, Chinese, tion of public and private vehicles. property owners; and j Croatian, Greek, Italian, Laotion, Malaysia: • the maximnm return in the most Macedonian, Polish, Romanian, Russian, 11 bnplementation of stage two of the Arca efficient manner from the sale of ,I Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Corporation property. .11 , Trnffic Control System for the city of Viemamese. It is planned to revise the Kuala Lumpur. handbook in the 1996-97 fmancial year The Program out.~uts for and also introduce a Russian version. Singapore: 1995-96 were: VicRoads uses statistics provided by the Improved computer integration for the Ethnic Affairs Commission and the Land Transport Authority to enhance the Estimate Actual Australian Bun~au of Statistics to assess area traffic control system for Singapore. Property disposal (gross sale value $000) 7,200 7,468 ,' I the need for the handbook to be prepared Hong Kong: Property inquiries in a particular language. Advice to the Transport Department on answered 125,000 111,374 I strategic traffic planning, and project VicRoads External management for the expansion of the Items of P.roiects Area Traffic Control System in Shatin correspondence 4,500 4,574 and the New Town area. External projects engender a versatility in VicRoads' staff and deliver expertise, China: • Patsy Kennedy viewing the Human services and products to government An Asian Development Bank sponsored Resource Module within the 1'::Xecutive Information System. 44 - Corporate Structure VicRoads' corporate structure comprises the Advisory Board, Roger Banks the Corporate Management Group and the Management Immediate Past President, RACY/Board Member RACV Committee. President, Intelligent Tnmsport Systems (Australia) Member Vic Roads' Audit Committee Advisory Board Garry Bradd Members at 30 June 1996: Managing Director, EastmoorTaxis Pty Ltd Immediate Past President. Victolian Taxi Association Colin Jordan (Chairman) Chief Executive Hill Noonan SecretaryIT reasurer, Transport Workers Union of Australia John McMillan (Victorian Branch) Deputy Secretary, Department of lnfrastructure Jim Hinton John Wise Grains Councillor, Victorian Farmers Federation Former Executive Officer and Resident Director of TNTI Chairman, Agricultural Engineering Committee, Victorian Ansctt Australia Farmers Federation (Vic and SA Division) :\1ember, VicRoads' Audit Committee Sue Lightbody VicRoads' staff member George Bennett AM Chief Commissioner, '.'Jorthern Grampians Shire Council Ivan Jones Senior Vice President, Australian Local Government VicRoads' staff member Association Greg Day Jmmediate Past President Municipal, Association of Victoria VicRoads' slaH member Commander Rob Johnson APM Alan Collins Traffic and Operations Support Department Manager Secretmiat, is Secretary to the Hoard. Victoria Police john Garry Bradd McMillan Jim Hinton Comm. Bob Johnson Bill Noonan john Wise • Advisory Board Members (I to r) Roger Banks, Ivan ]ones, Alan Collins (secretary), Colin Jordan, George Bennett, Greg Day and Sue Lightbody 46 ·Corporate Structure TI1c Advisory Board provides advice to the Chief Executive on David Anderson the following matters: General Manager, Road Safety • t11e needs of the Victorian community in regard to the Bill Collins provision of road and road user services and the develop Acting General Manager, Road System :.Vlanagement ment and maintenance of effective policy and strategic Tony Fry responses to such needs; General Manager, Traffic and Road Use Management • the impact of Government strategies and policies on the Geoff Shanks programs, operalions and future directions of the Acting General Manager, Registration and Licensing Corporation and its services; • future needs for road services including integrated and Note: multi-modal transport services; 1. * Members of lhe Mam1gemenl Committee • the use of new and improved technology for provision of better road services; 2. Max Lay, Director, Major Projec1s resigned to take up an appointment in the private sector in February 1996. • the fostering of working relationships with user groups across the community and industry in the development of 3. In April 1996, John :'.'Jation, General Mmmger, Registration road services; and Licensing, took up a senior government advisory appointment in Canberra. • public communication of Corporation programs; and The role of the Corporate Management Group is to assist the • any other matters referred to t11e Board by the :V1i.nister for Chief Executive in undertaking duties specified under the Roads and Ports, Secretary to the Department of relevant Acts, through delegated powers, and by pro\iding Infrastructure or the Chief Executive. advice. TI1is role encompasses: Corporate Management Group • monitoring the external environment and identifying signifi cant corporate issues to which VicRoads needs to respond; Corporate Management Group as at 30 June 1996: • developing strategic directions for Vic Roads' businesses and Colin Jordan* establishing medium and long term goals; Chief Executive • providing leadership to the Corporation, particularly in David Be1·ry* terms of VicRoads' culture, philosophies and values; Deputy Chief Executive/Director, Business Operations • negotiating internal budgets. Rob McQuillen .. Director, Regional Services Management Committee Kerry Burke* The Management Committee assists lhe Chief Executive to: Director, Production Services • monitor and co-ordinate the organisation's business perfor Peter Balfe .. mance against agreed targets; Director, Major Projects • address issues of resource usage to maximise efficient and Miranda Douglas effective service delivery and ensure the personnel within General Manager, Corporate Resources the organisation are developed to their maximum potential. Susan Harris General Manager, Human Resources Doug lbompson General Manager, Finance 47 Corporate Structure Senior Management Structure Colin Jordan Chief Executive I I I Kerry Burke David Berry Peter Balfe Rob McQuillen ~epon to O;rector Duc::tor D.rccf.:lf Oe~:Jty Chief Exacui '"· C~1ct [XE>:1.t1ve D"ect~r 8'.~1n~s D~erat1cns Ma,iltflOf.!~IS RP.~1cn;1 Services P•ocucl;on Serv.!l'ls Tony Frr Graham Gilpin GeoH Kloot Jahn Cunningham Miranda Douglas General Mar.ag2• F•o;e::; lof.Jnager Reg O'ial M;naQP.I Manager Gcr1cr~I Manac~r TraM r, & Road Us~ Mgt Wes:e!~ Ai;·,~ Read ~or.~ WP,SI Metro De!1gn Ccrporate RP.somres David Anderson Gary Liddle John Coles Bob Meggs Doug Thompson General ManaG€' ''C;fl:t Maoa;jff Re~1ooa: Manqer M~nager General Mana~er Rc~c Satetf F.ast~rn ?m,eo:s Scc1i East Metro Materrals T!ctnolr,gy Ftr.a1~ Geoff Shanks George Mavroyeni Nonn Butler Roger Gamble Susan Harris Ac11n~ G·:1~ral Manag~r Pr~i~d f·Aa" ag:; R:gtona: Ma'laqer l>l.. •mager Gane1a1 Manage: Reg1 strat1 on & LI :ers 1ng Sc•1th Easwn Ar.ero01 Eas!P.n Land lnio & Surv;;y Human flr~sou1ccs Bill Collins Biii Peyton Bruce Cochrane John D. Wiison Act1119 Gere·il Manager Proi~t Man~e· R€g1:mal Mara·~?r Man~Qer Road Syst•?m Managcmcn: Goutb~rr 1ra:1z·1 H1gh·1·a~ North E.ast;m Bu II~ ong Si l'/ICes John McNally Alex Evans Bruce Phllllps Rex Atkins Mana~er Prorcct Manag~r H~~1~nat Man~·:: Act:11g Mar.,agor lrfmmaho11T~cl:11ulcyy 3"·~ Nerthem Piar-t 6 Supp!y &!:vices ' Ga:def ~cmd·:ir Telecom T: un 1c:.t:or~ 11 Bob Evans Trevor Boyd John H. Wiison Rod Chapman Manager Prcicct Man Ruaell Matthews Russell Bittner Colin Kosky Peter Robinson ~tanager Pro,:c: M~nayor ncg1cnal Ma11agcr Ma11<1Ge• Envi•oomenta' aM Comm11~1ty P"11m~ South W;stsm Lxtsrn•I P:o Je:;!s Scn"c~s Roger Thorp Tim Holden Bruce Chipperfield M1.n;~er Man•ge< Minayer Cor.1:ac1 Ser.i~s P'DJ."'!:t,· Sc:\•1c;s Hsg;o;nl Ssr;1c1?S SOJppon 48 Financial Management ' Funding VicRoads is primarily funded from the Federal and State annual budgets and has some revenue sources of its own resulting from fee for service charges. The table below <>utlines the various sources of funds from 1992-93 to 1995-96. Funding Source! Source of Fund 1995-96 1994-95 1993-94 1992-93 Appropiiation Appropiiation Appropriation Appropriation Sm Sm Sm $111 Federal Appropriation Recurrent 106.6 109.5 59.3 7.2 Works & Services 145.:~ 145.4 FederalAL1D program 134.0 267.6 Federal One Nation program 65.1 75.1 State Appropriations Recurrent 277.l 246.6 240.l 272.2 Works & Services 35.4 33.5 33.5 3:t5 Better Roads Victoria 196.l 185.0 40.7 VicRoads General Fund 69.3 71.5 69J 69.0 External & Agency Works 28.9 33.6 49.3 42.7 Natural Disaster Relief -Local Roads 0.6 4.1 5.3 -Arterial Roads 8.5 VDP/TSP Departure Packages 4.9 19.6 19.4 Victorian Taxi Directorate 14.6 Other revenue 26.2 8.8 Operating Revenue Received 859.6 848.7 750.!J 795.5 Less: Transfer to Contributed Capital 369.8 35.0 Operating Revenue 489.8 848.7 715.9 795.5 During the course of the year VicRoads funding increased by • Federal Works and Services appropriations increased by $2.5 million. These variations occurred in the following areas: $2.682 due to increased funding allocations of $2.6m and an additional allocation for National Highway funds of $0.082m. • Federal Recurrent funds increased $4.247 million due to: • State Works and Services appropriations increased by $1.95 - an additional distribution to Victoria of Interstate Road million as a result of a temporary advance of this amount Transport maintenance funds oI $3.747million; and from the Public Transport Corporation's capital works - an increase of $0.5 million in Identified Road Funds. budget appropriation to VicRoads. • State Recurrent appropriations decreased Sl.873 million due to the transfer of $1.523 million resulting from Tow Truck allocation move to the Taxi Directorate, and a reduction of $0.35m in funding for the Scoresby Freeway. 49 financiaj Nonagernen! Composition of VicRoads Revenue CoUected for other The impact of the introduction of Funcling Sources Agencies quarterly paymenls has reduced revenue Under current Australian Land VicRoads performs the role of revenue collected for the Department. of Treasury Trrulsport. Development f und legisla collector for the Consolidated Fund, for and finance by $12 million. tion, tied Federal grants are restricted to Vehicle Registrations, Driver Ucenct>-", Other Revemui the National Highways network. The Stamp Duty and other related charges. balance of the funds made available for VicRoads also acts as an Agent in the Mass Limit Increase Pennit Fees were roads by the Federal Government, other collection of Transport Accident abolished on 1 January 1996 following than Interstate Road Transport mainte Commission (TAC) Premiums and the introduction of the National Heavy nance funding, are untied "identified Federal Interslate Registrations. Vehicle Registration charges. roads" Financial Assistance Gnmts. The Helow are the policy changes that level of these grants are reducing over a Financial Results for the occurred in 1995-96 in collecting revenue three year period and wt11 cease after for other agencies. Year 1996-97, they will be replaced by State An Opernting Deficit of $60.4 million Appropriations. Hea ~y Vehicle 'Registration before abnormal items was reported for State Appropriations suppor t. the Nationally consistent Heavy Vehicle the year compared to an Operating operation of the State roads neLwork and Registration charges were adopled in Deficit before abnormal items of $55.6 registration and licensing activities. Victoria on 1 January 1996. These million for the previous year. registrntion fees are detcnnined in direct Better Roads Victoria program was Comparative results for the last five proportion to the impact a vehicle has on introduced in 1993-94 to finance essential financial years are shown in the table road wear rather thlUl by horsepower and construction and maintenance programs below:- tare mass. in Victoria. These appropriations are Operaling Deficit $millions financed th rough the Better Roads Fuel Heavy Vehicle Registration charges apply before abnormal items Levy. to vehicles of 4.5 Gross Vehicle Mass 1995-96 60.4 (GVM) and above and allows three 1994-95 55.6 monthly registration payments. 1993-94 55.0 1992-93 39.9 1991-92 19.3 Composition of VicRoads Funding Sources 1995-96 Total Revenue Collections Federal TAC VicRoads . I Better Roads - Oth.r - Or1W!I T.1~.M.P.~ - Sl:nt•l• Th:lv - mi ~•~l'l\!~()I\ TAC 50 Finonciol Management Statement of f ~ n1:1ndal financial Management The Project's major milestones were: Position Improvements and • reported each participants corporate Initiatives Sign ificant changes in VicRoads financial activity cost; position for the year were:- • Cheque P roduction Outsourced • defined the performance goals and • Llabilities increased by $27.5 million During the .financial year the production recommendations on how the gaps during 1995-96, which is a combined of cheques was contracted out. This can be dosed; and result of an increase in provision for involved electronic transmission of a file • documented specific strengths and employee entitlements for superannu to the bank which in turn produced and weaknesses relative to participating ation and long service leave. a mailed the cheque as well as providing a State Road Authorities. reduction in the provision for annual full bank reconciliation service. Savings In pursuit of wo rld class slandards leave, and a general reduction in achieved from this project arc $60,000 VicRoads is endeavouring to make signif creditors. per year. icant improvements in the delivery of • Infrastructure assets valued at $9.164 • Benchmarking to achieve World several key financial services. The three billion were taken up as at 30 ] Wle Class Financial Mafl82ement areas of Accounts Payable, Payroll and 1996. The value of infrastructure Under the umbrella of the AUSTROADS Account.s Receivable are currently being assets were brought to account in line Council, the Beochmarking of Corporate reviewed and other financial activities with Department of Treasury and Financial Activities Project was will be examined in the fulure. Finance directives and Australian established with State Roads Authorities Accounting Standards. The inclusion and T ransit New Zealand. Duri ng 1995- of infrastructure assets into the 96 the Project's terms of refer ence were accounts recognises the value of achieved and champion Srate Road infrastructure assets that are under Authorities have evolved to coordinate the Corporations control. continuous improvements towards best Infrastructure assets capitalised as at practice of specific financial corporate 1 July 1995 were brought to account activities. and amounted to $8.811 billion, whilst Capital Works completed du ring the year have been capitalised at a value of $351.1 million. 51 -- Financial Statements Operating Statement Items Notes 1996 1995 $000 sooo For The Year Ended 30 June 1996 Operating Revenue Gc,•e:nment approflriations 3.1 391,008 724.956 Operating fees a11 489,848 848,694 less Operdting Expenditure Ro:!d Safety 30,321 26,571 Road System<; Management 287.650 598,419 Traffir & Rc:id Use Management 50,301 64,279 Registration & Licensing 75,386 61,424 Corporate Services 4.,745 3,695 Program Support Services 95,599 147,191 4 544,0()2 901,579 Oi>erating Deficit before Profit {l.oss) on sa!.e of AsS<'bJ & Abnormal Items (54,154) (52,885) Profit/ (Loss) on S11lc of proper r:f where proceeds are returned to the Consolidated Fund 5.1 307 5,264 Loss on Sale of other assets 5.2 (6,251) (2,713) (5.944) 2,551 Payment of PiOtit oo sale of property to the. Consolidated Fund 2.6 (307) (5,264) lms on Sale ofA!lsets (6,251) (2,713) Ot>erating (Deficit) before Abnormal Items (60,405) (55,598) Abnormal Items Property Register Adjustments 4(iii) (7,944) ~et Deficit For The Year (60,405) (63,542) Summary of Accumulated Deficit At The Beginning of the Year (966,476) (981,350) Arlj!tstment upon compliance with directives Under the> Financial Management Act 1994 Contrib11te>d Capital 2.13 86,604 Adjustment upon initial recognition of AAS30 Accounting for Employee Entitlements Z.lO(o) (8.188) Adjustment Accumulated Surplus/(lkfidt) at 1hc beginning of the year (966.476) (902,934) Nf:t Deficit for the year (60,405) (63.542) Accumulated Surplus/(Dclicit) At the End of Financial Year (l,026,881) (966,476) 'fh~ acoompanying note~ form part of the..e financial statemeats 52 F:ncr:c.'al Stctemenls Items Notes 1996 1995 Balance Sheet $000 $000 as at 30 Jvne 1996 •Equity Cont.ibuted Capital 6.1 9,805,905 630.464 A1'set Revaluation Reserve 6.2 190,630 192,159 Accumulated Sun)lus (Deficit) (1,026,881) (965,475) Total Equily 8,96S,654 (143.853) • Liabilities Current Llttbilities Creditors and Ac1.Tual11 109,84-0 120,117 Prepaid Revenue 3,644 3,004 Government ofVi<..1:iria and Agenr!es 7.1 14,409 8.793 ljabilitiei; - Pro!)t'rty 7.2 15,408 22,678 Planning and Eni.ironment Act Liabilities 7.:~ 5,264 5.754 Provisions for Employee En!ir!emen!S 7,4 53,624 SL,440 Retentions :md Provisions 1~··" 6.011 1,010 Totttl Current llibilities 2Q8,20(l 212,7S6 Non-Current Lla!TJides Provisions for Employee Entitlements 7.4 514,053 482,030 Retentions and Provii;ions 7.5 947 948 Total Non-current liabilities 515,000 482,978 Total Liabilitks 723.200 695,774 Tutal F..quh;y and I.Jab~ 9,692,854 551,921 •Assets Current Assets Cash at Bank, in H11nd & Deposits 8.1 31,428 17,569 Debtors and Prepayments 3.2 8,702 8,i\24 Inventories 8.3 5,457 4,9.13 Advances, Deposits and 'Retentions 8.4 66 78 Total Current A.~i; 45,6S3 31,404 Non Current Assets Advances, Deposits and IU:tcntions 8.4 376 539 Property Loans 8.5 239 2-ffs Land and Buildin;,.-rs in Service 8.6 5S.922 61.202 Properties Acquired Ior Roadworks 8.7 400,357 436.369 Assets in Commc-rcial Us<.! 8.8 10,000 Leased As~ets Acqu!rcd for Roadworks 8.9 64 80 Fixed Asset.s 8.10 13,669 22.079 lnfrastrnctllre Assets 8.11 9,163.574 Total Non-Current A11st"ts 9,647,201 520.517 Total Assettl 9,692,854 551,921 The ~cc:impanying note~ form part of tl1es<.> finandal ~ 53 Fir1ancio! s:otemef'ls Roads Corporation Statement of Cash Flows Items Notes 1996 1995 $000 $000 For The Year Ended 30 June 1996 Cash Flows from Operating Activities Re<".eipts Operating Fees ar. Tfifal Receipts frnm Operating Acti!lities 99,144 126,103 Payments i"iages and Sa!ades (115,fi83} (121,836) Voluatary Departure Paym~nts to Staff (41) (4,895) Goods & Servi::es (366,733) (692.279) Total Payments from Operating ,.1cti~>iti~s (482,457) (819,010) Xet Cash Hows used in Operating AetMties 9(.b) {383,313) (692,907) Cash Flows from Investing Activities Receipt·; from sa1e cf asseIB 5 7.143 54.,387 Pay;nl'nts for purchases of rion-curre11r assets (369,756) (33,762) Net Cash 1'1ow from lllvei.1ment Actnities (362,613) 20.625 Cash Flows from Government Receipts from Appropriation 3.1 Recurrent 333,917 356,118 Works and Services 180.728 178,928 Fur.ding for Bet'.er Roads 196,100 185,1100 Funding for Voluntary Departw'e Package 17 4,9ll Tntai inflows from Go11ernment 760,762 724.9511 Payments to Consolidated 1'\md Asset Saie Proceeds (6,593) (50.385) Totat Outflows to Go11ernmcnt (6,593) (50,385) Net Cash Flow from Government 754,Hi9 674.571 Cash Flows from Agency Operations 7.i Collect!onl:l on behalf of Government ar.d Agencies l,420,76C 1.380,372 Disbursements of Collections (1.415,144) (1.379.741) Net Cash Flows from. .Agency Operations 5.616 625 Net lncrease(Decrease) in Cash Held 13.860 2,914 Cash Al: Begim1ing of Year 9(a) 17,569 14,655 Cash At End of Year 9~a) 31.428 l7,569 The accompanying nor.cs fo'm parr of thes~ financial statements. 54 Finar.::::af S1otements Roads Corporation Notes to and Forming part of the accounts for the financial year ended 30 June 1996 1. Form and Content of Financial (c) Residual Land - I~olated Fragments Statements Following ::.he corr.plelicr. of rna f"llU:t{ ''-~~ets have hi:en ir.clude: S:iOOO per itern arc cx:tJ(.·n~ci. C.o:n;)uter wfiwo.:-e purd~ascs costing in e'J(('e!IS of $ 1()(,',~lCO arc 2.1 Generai ~·apito.lir;.?.ti. The"e fimmcial statements ':!<1v<; brt-:: drawn up on the g".)i;:g concern (o) Infr-astrutt1re Assets ho.sis a;1d the accrual basis k: acco:tlance \\~th che hlstcrk:.i CO&~ convenlior: eJCcept where ol~ier wl!3r s:Sl~' 55 Fmanc;of Statements Roads Corporation The inciusio11 of a v-alua.tion for Earthworks h.3.s beer, deierr~d until a Traffic Control Systems - based on 15 year life spa,"l of equipment. reliable method of valuation can be dete::minecl Work In Progress ail dtpreda'i:ion. Road Pavement Condition Basec! Depreciation The valuation policies adoptrd J)T')vide for roads to be valued at written Restoration cost is considered the :nost appropriate means of down current replacement cost. Each mad is assigned a value whici: measuring tht· loss of service porential oi road pavement. Restoration equates to the cost of re.placing that road t:> curren~ design stdlldartls cost reprC8CJlls the estimated cost U> restore the road pavement. t.o "as under existing tr-.ilfi<: ::omfaions. new# ron<.liticn. It is calculated by using road pavemeat conditio.11 data and applying unit rates applicable to the most appropriate generic TI1e current rep!acemP.r;t cosl includes all cost-s associated with treatment type neetruction cost per square metr<~ detcrmL'led for a range of cost. bridge :;pans. (b) Stockpiles of construc'jon and malnt.en:mce mate:iais "on site" witl1a Traffic Control Systems value in excess of $2,000 have been tak~n into account at cost. Tr!lffic Control Syi;tanS incorporates the fullowing: (c) Inventories of salezble items and ccnsu.'Illlb!e stores have been valued • Tr-.Jfic Signa..ls; at the lower of cost or net realisabk ..-ctlue. • Drive Time Har 56 Finonc:oi Sia:emenls Supera.'Jnuat.ion Scherac members and the existir_g comributors ancl 3. Operating Revenue pe!!s!o!1S of the SERB Scheme !-:as been provided by ::J:e V:ctorian Superannuaticn Board and has been taken t:p a!l a provision ii;. the 3.1 Government Appropriations accounts. 1996 19S5 St~perannuatio:oJ t>ntitlements estimated to be :l)l;'.{dhle :n ~he neli.1. 12 ~GOO sooo months are shown as a <1.111-ct:t liability. Rerurttat Appropriatloas 383,917 356.l17 1..1 sc far as the Transport Superami:.iation Scheme (excluding ~:"'lice re:ati11g to their tr..e.:nbers who had prior membership of the SERB Work~ Md Services Ap?ropriatiom; lS0,728 Seheme) ar. State Boating Cou.ncil 463 45(: Other - ReC'overies 5,2.W 7,539 Total 23,400 44,000 57 F1nanc1ai Statements Roads Corporation 3.3 Regulatory, licence and other revenue li) Depredation a'l 1996 1005 1·~·3·E 1995 $000 $000 $000 $000 Regularory, licence and other fees 3!1,913 411057 Buildhigs in ::;ci·vice 987 1,094 External works 23,808 26,082 leased Assets 16 16 Rental revenue S,~S 8,9~9 7,578 Adve;-tis!i:g rE'V"<'nue 968 Pla!lt & Eq::!pme:;t 4,509 Interest &16 1.114 Bttlk!ings Situatt:d o:-:. Land flCT;llired fur Rt.ad Works 597 714 Fmes & Penalties 1,794 1,988 c,109 9,402 Total 75,M.-O 1'9,138 1btdl 4~ Operating Expense;» (ii) PropC'r:jcs IncorrcrateC.. into Ro::..."works Road Nf'.tv.urk Management Programs Pwpertief', capi::&iisfd ir. acc.:;d:L,ce with fa· policy outlined in Nute 2.2, are expens:> - duplicate properties wrre i 11cfoc!e 58 Fmanc;ol Stotame 5. 1 Profit/Loss on Disposal of Fixed 6.2 Asset Revaluation Reserve 1996 As.sets $000 $000 !nd udt.>d in the Operati.fJK !:iurplus (Dcfidt) ii; th~ j)t"'.)fu (loss) on 186,32'.! disposal cl .F!x.." Profit/ (Loss} on S;-J~ 30~t 3,986 (b) Outsourced Plzi.t Services Procce yt>ar wt>re as follows:- Profit on disposal 1,2'?8 1996 1995 Total Profit/(Loss) on dispotsal 307 5,ZE-4 $000 ~000 Bal.mce at 1 July 8,793 8,168 5.2 loss on Disposal of Non-C.'urrent ft..sse!s Plus tolal revenue conectious {see below *l 1.420:760 lnduded ~ 1.he O;:ie:·a!ing Deficit i3 the k.s:1 on Glspos21 d Fixed A!>~t3. 111t' pr::cecls fru1:: tl!f'~ disxsale ari:- re\aa:e~~ v• tl:~ l,4~,553 1,430,540 Co.rpo ration. · • Les~• total amo:rnt paid 1,421,747 1996 1995 Balance at 30 June 14,409 8,793 $000 $000 .PrcC'ecds from saie ~)()4 3,675 • Revenue collections on behalf cf Govtrmnt'nt li!ld Otl1er Agencies Book Value oI assets wld 5,3$.3 7.155 compri~·:- loss on Disp0!5.ll of Assets (6,251) (2,713) 1?~6 1995 sooo $000 T:-an!'P-Ort !<,,x>.i1mt cti~ and rew.te{i ~.a:11p Du~f T.f~~)3 7i17,1'99 6. Equity ~))~,09,; 190,0,'!1 ~13,592 369,146 6.1 Contributed Capital Dlivt>TS' Lkences 64.597 64,114 N(}tes 1~"95 199S ·-----'~""· oo:.=o'--· __.:::.Sl:::.:}0.2_ Feder-al 1-l~r~Me R~gii;;traticm; 13,36-t tl,376 Balance i!t I Jtlly S3C,4B4 ?G2.13S Ofht~ L:~~se fr.~s. F~mlt.: etc. 18.863 ~.851 Capital Funding 3.1 369,754 5,307 5;?9i7 Transfer tc Axumtilated &rplus (lklicil) 2.L1 (e<-i,6().1.) Four Wheel Drive~ ~ Adjusimcal for Capi!alisatic;; of lnfra..w: 1.:-tu.-e 8,$11,973 Tru:1t Fund 797 2.lg Proceeds paid to the (\:1moiidaled F~d (6,286) (45,121) .A.:iset Sale~ 6,593 [,-0.484 .Balance at 30 .lune 9,805,905 630,464 Total 1,420,760 1,422,372 59 Fmon.;ic/ Statements Roads Corporation 7 .2 Liabilities - Property 7.5 Retentions and Provisions This amoant represents the value of properties acq..iired for road These items represent Contractors' Claims, Ret::ntions. Security purposes (including acquisition costs} where a Notice of Acquisition Deposits and amolUlts provided for precast ionnwork and future site (; a.<; been funnally served on the property owner or the Corporation works. including emironmeni:al r~torati o n works at the Quanies and has ta6en formal posser.siou although final settlement had c.ot been Pits operated by tl ~e Corporation fo!lowh1g completion of quarrying achieved at 30 JWJe. Refer Note 2.3(a). operations. Amounts have been based on valuat.ion data prepare 7 .3 Planning and Environment Ad Liabilities T:!tls amou..1t repreeents compensation payable ln respect of financial los3 by owners of prorx:rties affected by plannhlg reservations. Refer t\ote 2.3(a). 7 .4 Pro"1sioos for Employee Entitlements 1996 1995 Current Non Tota! Current Non TotBl sooo Current SC Supt•rt.nnuation 3S,540 472.57'.i 512.115 35,!J88 444,858 48Q,8.,\6 Annual Leall'..l & Leaw Loading 7,\1'34 7,934 9.2€0 9.26~ Long S<'nice Leave 6,l60 41. .4 78 47,628 6,192 ::!7,172 43,364 Total 53,621, 514,Q53 567,677 51,440 482,030 533,470 The above pro'llision for superannuation cover!i' three schemes as follows:- 1996 1995 $COO $000 Srate Supcran:1Uation Scheme 473,077 445,800 T!'llllsport Super2Il!lua!ion Scheme 15,402 13,174 Stat.e Employees P-etirement Benefits (SERB) Scheme 23.S36 2Lm Total 512,115 480,846 Reads CorpGration P.mployees contribute to one of the following superannuation schemes; the State Superannuation Scheme, the State Emplcyees Retirement Bene.fits (SERB) Scheme, the TransIJ<>rt Super:mnuatio11 Scheme or the Water Industry Superannuatbn Fund. In accor:lance with Note 2.lO(c} the Corporation made payments duiing 1995-96 to the Stale Superannuation Scheme S26.866 million ($25.284 mllllon for 1994-05 ) . Transport Superannuation Fund $3.856 million ($4.619 million for 1994-95), SERB $1.673 million ($1.374 mi!lio1: fer 1994-95) and to Water Industry Superannuation Ftmd $0.041 milliou ($0.027 million for 1994-95). These amoWlts are included as S:ilaries and Related ex1--enses in the Operating Statement. Cr.ntcibutions paid were in accordance with the rates set by the relevant funds. 60 Firionciol Sfatemer.ls 8. Assets 8.6 Land and Buildings in Service This item refers tc those assets which are in service e.g. offices and 8.1 Cash at Bank, on Hand and Deposits lal:!orato1ies, regional residential properties, storage sit.es, depots and patrol garages and includes freehold buildings, buildings en Crowe 1996 1995 Land, buildings on leased land, leasehold lm.provcrr:ents and oihers. $000 sooo 1996 1995 Cash at Bank 31,343 17,485 $000 $000 Ca>h ::nHand 85 84 Land Total 31,428 17,569 At Valuation 17,456 2(1,123 Buildings 8.2 Debtors and Prepayments At Valuation 41,558 43,113 1996 1995 l..ess Accwnulated Depreciation (92) (2,034) $000 $.000 41.466 4!,07D Debtors 7,ll!i 7,243 Total land & Buildings 58,922 61,202 Less estima!f'd doubtful debts 198 428 6,921 6,815 8. 7 Properties Acquir-ed for Roadworks Prwayments 1,781 2,GC9 At 30 June 1996 die Corporation o:vned properties which are required ToCal 8,702 8,824 for future roadworks. $ltuatf'd in a planniag scheme for future roadworks, surplus to requirement.s and awaiting final survey after roadworks. or land-locked awaiting pla.11s of consolidatinn ""ld resrcra tion of access before being sold. Refer !'Vote 2.3. 8.3 Inventories 1996 1995 W:'lere possible, these proper:.ies are rented or leased until req'Jired $000 $000 for r 61 Roads Corporation 8.8 A~sets ha Commercial Use 9. Statement of Cash Flows (itl &conciliation of Cash ! 996 1995 $000 $0C-O ?nr me t:'lll"',,ose cf tht Statcmr.;n! of Ca.~h fl-0.ws, ilie Corpo.rat-00 cCn:3k~.ers cash to i.!:icltide c2.sh in h&nrl\ i.!1 b<:P.k8 and L"'tve-&trnen~ al A.«sets in Commercial t:se at Vr.Ju!ltion C?Jl. Cash at :he m A.'!Sets b Com.r;ien:ial Use co1npm.es of ::rcvious1y un rt>eogr:i~(i 1996 1995 pr·'.'lperty currently Gccupied by commercial Service Centres. $000 $GOO ·.:ash at 3ank 31,343 17,485 8.9 Leas2d Asse~ Acquired for Roadworks Cash on Hand 85 84 1996 1995 $000 $(){)(} Total !'n,423 17,569 Leasehold building SC 96 Less Aro;mulated Amorthsation 16 16 lb) Reconciliation of :Jf:t ::<>sh '.lsed i'1 cpc! 8 . 1~} F"ixed Assets 401 1996 1995 Pr1; 9er~es incorporn!.ed into road wor:-s 36,863 31.136 $000 $000 l'ayment t'J Co-aS;i)idaterl F•!!ld fucdAS$€(S 31.338 44,705 F~opE:rty register aciju<>tments t':l.158) 7,944 Less Accumulated Depredation (17,669) (22,626) (39U)iJ8l (724.956) Total Plant & equipment 13,669 22,079 Loss on Disposal 5,944 (2,552) Decrea:;cs (!ncrea.'le) in invent.orit:"s (574) 4,!577 8.11 Infra. 62 Finonco! Stalerr.ents 10. Remuneration and Retirement 11 . Others Matters Benefit$ (i) Contingent liabilities In a<'cordr.nce wi:'.n the Dirc~ ion:;; vf '..,1::- Minister for Finance undc•r (a) Legal tie Fi:>ar!dal :VJa n 4~!ne-nt kt 1~4~ Lhe bEo·fri ~g cliscloslires ar·t made for the Respv:ir,lblc Ministers, Directors and Exe<:utive The Roads Co!-poraticn has exaii:ined !ts records w JJrovidc an Officcn;. e!t.:irr.are of possible materiai exposures resuitir:g from v&-ious ;~gal adim:;s aml oth7.'r contingenci~. The eb1imate of such cor.tingent (i) Responsihle fe:--sons liabilities as at 30 Jane 1996 wi:s $ i2.5 million ($4.~ rniilion for 1994- 95). 1 he nan•~ of persons who held the position of Responsible Minister at any lime dl!ring fr;P. reportir,z ~f!od ate: ~ 7he Ho;i WR Biixte~~ :MLC. MiPi8terfo: Roods & Perts i.:12 April (a) Forward Contracts 1996 TI1e outs!anding commitments as at 30 Jw1e is: • TI1e Ho:i G R C.ralge. MLC, M1tl:;ter fur Roads & Ports from 2 April 1%fi 1996 1995 $000 $000 The narnt'S oi. persons who were directors at any t!.tne during the reporting period are: Road, Bridge and Ancillary Works 280,635 2W,87i • Colin Jordan Land Acquisition · formal possPssion not taken as at 30 June (Refer '.'fates 2.3(a)) .2, ii5 9,973 • Davi T~~ :.11-ltnb~t .:rf P ire~tcrs \.Vhcse !ncorne i..~r:: the CorporatiQn was \\lithk. the foHo\;;~J~~ bands: tv;() The number {>f exe::mivc of5('e~s whose income from thC' (!iiH. !996 1995 Total 143,285 69,838 $1<10.000·Sl10.00 $120,001 · ~ 130,COO $140,L'Ol · $150,00fj The total r~·munt·r~lion cf t.'lese executives 199&96 was Si ..2 % million {$1.322 r.llill.on. for 1994-95). ~iv) Other Transactions of Directors and Director-Related Entilie.s Nil 63 Fmo nc1oi Siatemer. ts Statutory Statement by Accountable Officer and Chief Finance and Accounting Officer Jn our opinion - (a) the aa:ompan}iog financial statements of the Roads Corporation prt'SC!lt fairly the financial transactions of the Corporation for the y~ar ended 30 Ju ne 1996 and the financial positiou of the Corporation as at tl-..at date, (o)lhe financial statements of tl1e Corporation have been prepared in accordance with tl1e F'man cia1 ~fanagemeot Act 1 994 and the Directions of the Mil.W;ter for finance, and (c} at U1e date of signing these ~;tatements we are not aware of any circumstanct.'S which would render any particulars included in L1ese financial statements to be misleading or inaccuratt>. Colin Jordan CMef Executive Douglas G Thompson Dirt'ct(lr FinancR Dated al Melbourne on 17 October l996 64 - F1r.anc1a:' S.latements Auditor-General's Report Aud.it Scope The accompanying financial statements of Roads Corporation for the year ended 30 June 1996, comprising a operating statement. balance sheet, statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, have been audited. The chief executive of the Corporation is responsible for the preparation and presentation of these financial statements and the information they contain. An independant audit of the :financial staements has been carried out in order to express an opinion on them as required by the Audit Act 1994. The audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance as to whether the :financial staements are free of material misstatement. The audit procedures included an examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial statements, and the evaluation policies and significant accounting estimates. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion as to whether, in all material respects, the financial statements are presented fairly in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements and comply with the requirements of the Financial Management Act 1994, so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of the financial position of the Roads Corporation and the results of its O{l€rations and its cash flows. The audit opinion expressed on the financial staements has been formed on the above basis. Qualification The corporation has included in its balance sheet infrastructure assets consisting of road pavement, bridges and traffic control systems, at a value of $9.1 billion. The basis of valuation is set out in note 2.S(b) to the financial staements. However, the Corporation could not adequately substantiate the value attributed to certain signifi cant components of these infrastructure assets. Accordingly, I am not in a position to, and do not, express an opinion on the value of these assets. Qualified Auilit Opinion In my opinion, except for the effect on the financial statements of the matters referred to above, the financial statements present fairly the financial position of the Roads Corporation as at 30 June 1996 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended on that date in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and oilier mandatory professional reporting requirements and comply with the require ments of the Financial Management Act 1994. /-°'£,~ MELBOURNE C.A. Baragwanath 18 October 1996 Auditor-General 65 Compliance Index Disdo sure Clause Page Report of Operations Charter & Purpose Manner of establishment and Relevant Minister !UJ (i) (a) 5 Objectives, functions, powers and duties 9.1.3 (i) (b) 4 Services provided and persons or sections of community served 9.1.3 (i) (c) 5 Management & Structure Names of governing board members, Audit Committee & Chief Executive 9.1.3 (i) (d) (i) 46 Names of senior office holders and brief description of each office 9. 1.3 (i) ( Financial and other information Workforce data and application of merit & equity principles 9.1.3 (i) (e) 69 Application and operation of FOI Act 1982 9 .1.3 (i) (f) 70 Summary of financial results with previous four year comparatives 9.1.3 (Ii) (a) 50 Summary of significant changes in financial position 9.1.3 (ii) (b) 51 Extent o! compliance witlt Building Act 1993 9.U (ii) (h) 70 Financial Statements Statement of Financial operations Operating revenue by class 9.2.:~ (Ii) (a) 57 Depreciation, amortisation or diminution in vdlue 9.2.3 (li) (e) 58 Bad and doubtful debts 9.2.3 (ii) (l.) 61 Losses arising from the sale of non current assets 9.2.a (ii) (g) 59 Audit expense 9.2.3 (li) (i) 58 66 Compiionce .Index Disclosure Clause Page Statement of Financial position Cash at bank or in hand 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (i) 61 hlventories by class 9.2.:{ (iii) (a) (ii) 61 Receivables, including trade debtors, loans and other deblors 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (iii) 61 Other assets, including prepaymenLs 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (iv) 61 Property, planl & equipment 9.2.3 (Iii) (a) (vi) 60&62 Bank lmuis, bills payable, promissory notes, debentures and other loans 9.2.3 (lii) (b) (ii) 61 Trade and other creditors 9.2. 3 (iii) (b) (iii) :=;;{ Provisions, including employee entitlements 9.2 .:{ (iii) (b) (v) 60 Issued capital 9.2.3 (iii) (c) (ii) 59 Reserves, and transfers ro and kom reserves, shown separately 9.2.3 (iii) (d) 59 Statement of Caslz flows A statement of cash flows during !he year 9.2.2 (i) (c) .'i4 Notes to the financial statements Amounts written off 9.2.2 (i) (d) 58 Conti.agent liabilities 9.2.3 (iv) (b) 63 Commitments for expenditure 9.2.3 (iv) (c) 63 Employee superannuation funds 9.2.3 (iv) (e) 60 Transactions with Responsible persons and their related parties 9.4 6:~ 67 - Appendices Legislation • Transport (Passenger Vehicles) a person from driving a motor vehicle; Regulations, which provide for the • provided for assessments of drivers as The Roads Corporation has responsibili operation of licensed commercial a precondition to licence restoration ties Wlder the Road Safety Act 1986 and passenger vehicles. following a conviction for a drug parts of the Transport Act 1983 and the related offence; Chattel Securities Act 1987. Related The Chattel Securities Act 1987 • applied zero blood alcohol to taxi functions are conferred under the Local establishes a register of security drivers; Government Act 1989 and the Interstate interests in motor vehicles to protect • provided for regulations to be made Road Transport Act 1985 of the buyers against undisclosed prior concerning the operation of commer Commonwealth. interests. The Chattel Securities cial passenger vehicles in hazardous Regulations provide administrative The Road Safety Act 1986 deals with areas; mechanisms for the operation of the registration of motor vehicles, licensing • made other minor amendments to the Vehicles Securities Register. of drivers, general motoring and drink Principal Act. driving offences and parking and traffic Under the Local Government Act 1989, In addition, the Road Safety (Wheel infringements. Regulations under the certain actions by municipal councils to Clamping) Act 1996 was enacted in June Road Safety Act are the: block or restrict road access, require a to give effect to the recommendations, of report or consent of the Roads • Road Safety (rraffic) Regulations, the Parliamentary Community Develop Corporation. which deal with traffic rules for all ment Committee, on the practices of road users; By an arrangement between the immobilising and towing away vehicles Governor-General and the Governor of from private property. 'The commence • Road Safety (Vehicles) Regulations, Victoria, the Roads Corporation is ment of the Act had not been proclaimed which set out registration procedures appointed as a Registration Authority as al the end of June bul was expecled to for motor vehicles and prescribe under section 6(1) of the interstate Road occur on or about 1 August 1996. vehicle standards; and Transport Act 1985 of the Amendments to the Transport Act cmne • Road Safety (Procedures) Commonwealth. into force under the following amending Regulations, which deal with driver Recent Amendments Acts: licensing procedures, breath and The Road Safety Act 1986 was amended blood lests, speed and mass detection Transport (fow Truck Reform) Act by provisions of the Road Safety No. 17of1995 equipment, hours of driving for (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act No. 58 This Act substantially amended the law drivers of heavy vehicles, demerit of 1995 which came into force during the relating to the licensing of tow trucks and points and infringements. year. This Act: their drivers and provided heavier The Transport Act 198:~ establishes the • conferred inspection powers on penalties for breaches of the legislation. Corporation as a legal entity and gives it officers of the Department of Equal Opportunity Act No. 42 of 1995 powers and functions in respect of road Transport; users, parts of the road transport This Act repealed the age restriction of • provided for the holders of interstate industry and maintenance of the State 65 years imposed on the Chief Executive or overseas licences to comply with declared road network. Regulations of the Roads Corporation and Public conditions; made under the Transport Act are the: Transport Corporation. It also repealed • enabled the immediate suspension of the requirement that the office of a • Transport (Roads and Property) the licence of impaired drivers; member of the Board becomes vacant Regulations, which deal with matters • amended the law relating to demerit when the member attains the age of 72 relating to the use and management of points to apply the points as from the years the declared road system and ; date of an offence; • provided for an appeal to the Magistrates Court against the decision of a police officer forbidding 68 Appendices Road Safety (Miscellaneous heavy vehicles in Victoria. These charges During 1995-96, VicRoads' Internal Amendments) Act No. 58 of 1995 replace the registration fees that would Auditors undertook a wide variety of This Act provided for the extension of the otherwise apply under the Road Safety projects which addressed control/ Taxi Directorate to hire cars and special Act 1986. compliance, effectiveness and oper purpose vehicles and made correspond Regulation Amendments ational issues. Activities included: ing changes to the functions of the Roads The following amendments to • a program of regular visits to registra Corporation. It also repealed provisions Regulations administered by VicRoads tion and licensing and roads of.fices. about the regulation of commercial were made during the year: Performance of these offices in key passenger vehicles in hazardous areas in Road Safely (Procedures) (Infringements) operational areas is benchmarked; consequence of the transfer of those Regulations S.R. 98/1995 provisions to the Road Safety Act. • data integrity audits of VicRoads' Road Safety (Procedures) (Licence Public Transport Competition Act Classifications) Regulations S.R 115/1995 registration, licensing and other key No. 68 of 1995 Road Safely (Procedures) (Interstate databases; The main purpose of this Act was to Licences) Regulations S.R.128/1995 • review of the on-going management improve the operation of road-based Road Safety (Procedures) {Digitised Images) of VicRoads' contract with lSSC, the public transport by providing for the Regulations S.R.142/1995 outsourced provider of VicRoads' accreditation of operators and Road Safety (Procedures) (fowing Infringements) Regulations S.R.154/1995 information technology requirements; implementing a system of service contracts for certain types of transport Road Safety (Procedures) (Miscellaneous) • reviews of computer security and key Regulations S.R19V1995 service. applications within VicRoads' compre Road Safety (Procedures) (Demerit Points) hensive PARMS financial and Electricity Industry (Further Regulations S.R5/1996 Amendment) Act No. 79 of 1995 operational systems and other Road Safety (Procedures) (Driving Hours) management systems; and This Act amended the provisions of Regulations S.R.17 /1996 Schedule 5 to the Transport Act concern Road Safety (Traffic) (Local Speed Limits) • reviews of management systems ing the apportionment of the cost of Regulations S.R.128/1995 relating to major road construction street lighting on State highways and Road Safely (Vehicles) (Defective Vehicles) projects. main roads. Regulations S.R85/1995 Road Safety (Vehicles) (Loading) Regulations Miscellaneous Acts (Omnibus S.R.108/1995 Workforce Data Amendments) Act No. 100 of 1995 Road Safety (Vehicles) (Heavy Vehicle Year 94/95 95/96 Charges) Regulations S.Rl90/1995 This Act made consequential Executive Officers 61 61 amendments to the tow truck provisions Engineers/ of the Principal Act. .Audit Report Professionals 513 516 Technical Staff 346 333 Melbourne City Link Act 1995 VicRoads' internal audit function has No.107 of 1995 been outsourced to Arthur Andersen. Its Administrative Staff 1325 1292 Titis Act declared the Link Road to be a mission is to provide a high-quality, Field Employees 659 633 declared road under the Transport Act responsive service that independently Total 2904 2835 and made consequential amendments to evaluates VicRoads' business processes the regulation-making powers and other and internal control environment. The Males 2300 2230 provisions of the latter Act. aim is to improve quality and cost Females 604 605 effectiveness, and to minimise risk. A new principal Act, the Road Transport Total 2904 2835 Charges (Victoria) Act 1995, was enacted to apply uniform national road transport charges, adopted under the Inter Governmental Agreement on Heavy Vehicles, as the registration charges for 69 Ap03ndice:; Freedom of Information VicRoads' General :Manager - Road Contrac;ts Safety, manages lhe Road Cse During the year, VicRoads received 94 One hundred and thirly-six contract" Management Program, one of requesls for information under the were awarded during the year at a total of ACSTROADS. major program areas. Freedom of Information Act with approximately $276 million. The major program effort is directed to decisions as follows: assisting the National Road Transport In addition $7.9 million, was used to Access granted in full 40 Commission lo develop national regula purchase the services of external Access granted in part 24 tions for registration, licensing and heavy providers lo assist VicRoads in the Access denied 19 vehicle management. deliw~ ry of its programs and services. In process 4 TI1c Manager, Pavement Technology Transferred to another agency 2 chairs the AllSTROADS Pavement Lapsed or withdrawn by applicant 5 Research Group. VicRoads' Officers VicRoads' offtccrs arc also involved as project managers and team members in Principal Officer: Colin Jordan, Chief the development of many AUSTROADS Executive initiatives ranging from national perfor- Authorised Officer: David Holmes, mancc measures to road safety audits. Freedom of Information Officer; Martin Pollard, Manager, Legal Services. VicRoads and Compliance with the Building Act 1993 AUSTROADS As a member of AUSTROADS, the Building Works Nwnber national association of Australasian roads • Buildings cerlified for approval Nil and traffic authorities, VicRoads is signif • Works in construction and the subject of mandatory inspections Nil icantly involved in the development of • Occupancy Permits issued Nil national initiatives aimed at hannonising regulations and increasing efficiency in Maintenance the transport industry lUld in transport • '.'lotices issued for rectification of sub-standard buildings autl1oritics. requiring urgent attention Nil Colin Jordan, Chief Executive of • Involving major expenditure and urgent attention Nil VicRoads, was appointed Chairman ol Conformity AUSfROADS in November 1995. • Number of buildings conforming with standards 7 David Berry, VicRoads' Deputy Chief Executive, managed a major study, • Brought into conformity this year Nil commissioned by AlJSTROADS titled Note: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- 'Roads in the Community'. The study, {i) Cessation of lease at 89 High Street, Kew. which was substantially completed in 1995-96, provides a comprehensive (ii) Leasing of new pUJl)ose-buill office at Burwood East review of the state of the Australian road system and how well it is serving community needs. 70 Appendices Prosecutions Eastern Region South Eastern Arterial Project Norm Butler, Regional Manager George Mavroyeni, Project Manager With the heavy vehicle. reforms deliver 120 Kay Street, Traralgon, 3844 Cnr Carroll Crescent & Tooronga Road ing greater industry co-operation and Tel: (051) 722 666 Glen lris, :H46 responsibility, VicRoads can now focus Tel: (();{) 9822 1799 North Eastern Region on working in an educative capacity Bruce Cochrane, Regional Manager Western Ring Road Project promoting the reforms and the self 50-52 Clarke Street, Benalla, 3672 Graham Gilpin, Project Manager regulation schemes. Its on-road enforce Tel: (057) 611 888 1/144 Melrose Drive, ment efforts are targeted at operators Tullamaiine, 3043 Northern Region and drivers who continue to disregard Tel: (03) 9338 4055 Bruce Phillips, Regional Manager the regulations. 57 Lansell Streel, Bendigo, 3550 Road Management Sub-Offices A summary of the number of operators Tel: (054) 345 000 and drivers, detected by Transport Safely Bairnsdale Office Metropolitan South East Region Joe Gwi:l;dek, Manager Services Officers, who did nol comply John Coles, Regional Manager 535 Princes Highway with lhe regulations, is provided below. 12 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, 3151 Tel: (051) 523 344 Offem:e reports (primarily for over Tel: (03) 9854 2666 Horsham Office weight and excess dimensions) Metropolitan North West Region Graham Freestone, Manager submitted for prosecution by VicRoads Geoff Kloot, Regional Manager 14 O'Callaghans Parade for 1995--96 totalled 1122. Of the 1510 8th Floor, North Building Tel: (053) 819 450 charges laid 1509 were successful and 598 Lygon Street, Carlton South, 3053 Mildura Office the Magistrates Court of Victoria Tel: (03) 9854 2G66 Bryan Sherritt, Manager $1.1 imposed financial penalties of Project Offices 109-111 Orange Avenue million. Tel: (050) 213 662 Ballarat Bypass Project A total of 5021 on-the-spot penalty notices Trevor Boyd, Project Manager Warrnambool Office were issued for 1995-96, with infringe Old Creswick Road, Wendouree, :n55 Alan Harman, Manager ment penalties being Sl J million. One Tel: (053) 381 744 29 Jamieson Street hundred and forty-seven pleas to review Tel: (055) 619 2555 Calder Corridor Projects notices were received. Combined Alex Evans, Project Manager Registration & Licensing monetary penalties from court fines and 2 Beauchamp Street, Kyneton, 3444 Offices penalty notices were $2.4 million. Tel: (054) 226080 Telephone call queueing numbers for Eastern Freeway Projects these offices are: Office Addresses Gary Liddle, Project Manager • ReJ,ristration 131171 VicRoads Head Office 2 Frederick Street, Doncaster, 3108 • Licensing 131173 60 Denmru·k Street, Kew, :mn Tel: (03) 9840 3100 Tel: (O:{) 9854 2666 Goulburn Valley HiWlway Project The Office Manager or Supervisor is Bill Peyton, Project Manager listed below: Regions 166 Benalla Road, Shepparton, 3630 Ararat South Western Region Tel: (058) 320 900 Irene \.Vhite Colin Kosky, Regional Manager Shop 2 - 56 High Street, Princes East Projects 63 McKillop Street, Geelong, 3220 Arru·at, :·t~77 Tel: (052) 252 525 Russell Bittner, Project Manager 5 McCrorey Street, Trafalgar, 3824 Bairnsdale Bev Dunstan Western Region Tel: (056) :t~2 477 John Wilson, Regional Manager 535 Princes Highway, 1315 Sturt Street, Ballarat, 3350 Bairnsdale, 3875 Tel: (053) :B8 777 71 l l. Appendices Ballarat Dromana Oakleigb South Jim Kierce Reno Camilleri Errol LaBrooy Learmonth Road, Shop 11 Dromana CenLral 1 Eskay Road, South Oakleigh, 3167 Wendouree, 3355 143 ::"lepean Highway, Portland Dromana, 3936 Benalla Adrian Sdunidt Alan Jamieson Echuca Glenelg Municipal Office 50-52 Clarke Street. Benalla, 3672 Colin Hayes Cliff Street, Portland, 3305 5 :Mmdarra Road, Echuca, 3564 Bendigo Sale David Francis Frankston Trevor Gartung 57 Lansell Street, Bendigo, 3550 Trevor McDonald 28 Princes Highway, Sale, 3850 71 Hartnett Drive, Seaford, 3198 Blackburn Seymour Mike Forshaw Geelong Alan Jackson 20 Albert Street, Blackburn, :n~~O David White 5 Crawford Street, Seymour, 3660 Fyans Street, South Geelong, 3220 Braybrook Shepparton Lucy Cambareri Greensborough Frank Rossignuolo 11 Evans StreeL, George Armento 231-239 Corio Street, Braybrook, 3019 Diamond Village Shopping Centre Shepparton. 3630 Nepean Street, Watsonia, :~087 Broadmeadows Sunbury John Gheller Hamilton John Gheller Cnr Pearcedale Pde & Johnstone St Peter McCluskey (Mgr Broadmeadows Office) Broadmeadows, 3047 Riley Street, Hamilton, 3300 Clo Sunbury Municipal Offices :-ifi Macedon Street, Sunbury, 3429 Burwood East Horsham John Archer David Lavithis Swan Hill 12 Lakeside Drive, 14 O'Callaghans Parade, Alex Seamons Burwood East, 3151 Horsham. 3400 70 Nyah Road, Swan Hill, 3585 Camberwell Kyneton Wangaratta Don Leone David Francis (:Mgr Bendigo Office) Roberto Paino 3 Prospect Hill Road, 2 Beauchamp Street, Kyneton, 3444 6-8 Handley Street, Camberwell, 3124 Wangaratta, 3677 Leongatha Carlton John Matthews Warragul Nick Constance Anderson Street (Sth Gippsland Hwy) Christine Waite 459 Lygon Street, Leongatha, 3953 Unit 5, 131 North Road, Carlton, 3053 Warragul, 3820 Maryborough Cobram Mark Robertson Warrnambool Frank Rossignuolo Clo Shire Office, Neill Street Jolm Medley (Mgr Shepparton Office) Maryborough,3465 29 Jamieson Street, c Io Shire Offices Warrnambool, 3280 Melton 44 Station Street, Cobram, 3644 Lucy Cambareri (Mgr Braybrook Office) Werribee Co lac CJ o :Melton Shire Office Patrick Daniels Greg Compton High Street, Melton, 3337 11 Riverside Avenue, 8 Rae Street, Colac, 3250 Werribee, 3030 Mildura Dandenong Richard Barker Wodonga Eric Howe 109-111 Orange Avenue, Bruce Ronald 16 Princes Highway, Doveton, :n 77 .Ylildura, 3500 82-86 Elgin Street, Wodonga, 3690 Mor well Michael Kearns 87 Princes Highway, Morwell, :-1840 72