The Minns Labor Government has launched a nation-first safety trial featuring smart school zone signs at Wallsend South Public School in the Hunter region. This trial marks the first use of dynamic, AI-powered signage in Australian school zones and is designed to enhance safety for students and families.
Dylan Anderson
Installation and Technology
Two smart signs have been installed along Croudace Road and McCaffrey Drive. Developed locally by Hunter-based manufacturer HIVIS Group, these next-generation signs incorporate radar, pedestrian sensors, and artificial intelligence to monitor traffic and pedestrian activity in real time.
The signs are:
- Solar-powered
- Internet-connected using 4G
These features enable the signs to operate without fixed power infrastructure, making them adaptable to a wide range of environments.
Real-Time Alerts and Functionality
The smart signs are programmed to display dynamic messages based on live data. Key functions include:
- Displaying a "SLOW DOWN" warning when a vehicle exceeds the 40 km/h school zone speed limit
- Responding to high volumes of pedestrian movement by increasing alert frequency
- Providing tailored messages even outside of designated school zone hours
Data Collection and Evaluation
The trial will evaluate how the signage influences driver behaviour. All collected data—such as vehicle speed, traffic volume, and pedestrian counts—will be securely transmitted to a centralised system for analysis. This analysis will help determine the effectiveness of the technology in improving compliance and reducing speed in school zones.
Dylan Anderson
Funding and Program Support
The trial is backed by an $83,500 investment from the Small Business Innovation & Research (SBIR) Program, managed by the Office of the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer. HIVIS Group has led the development and installation of the signage technology.
Site Selection Criteria
Wallsend South Public School was chosen for this pilot due to:
- High levels of vehicle and pedestrian traffic
- Strong 4G network coverage
- Adequate solar exposure
- Proximity to the base of the delivery partner, HIVIS Group
Broader Safety Context
This initiative builds upon existing safety infrastructure that has already resulted in a 56% reduction in school zone crashes across NSW in the past decade. The trial represents the next step in modernising school zone safety by incorporating smart, adaptive technologies to protect vulnerable road users.
The results from this pilot will inform potential broader implementation across the state, positioning NSW as a leader in road safety innovation.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
