Hosting a major public event in a bustling city like Melbourne, Victoria comes with significant logistical challenges — especially when it comes to traffic management planning for Melbourne events. Ensuring public safety, managing road closures, and securing permits requires careful coordination with authorities and certified professionals. 

At Barleys Traffic Management, we specialise in end-to-end traffic planning solutions tailored for events across Melbourne. Whether it’s a music festival, sports match, parade, or local market, we handle every aspect of event traffic control with precision and compliance. 

Why Traffic Management Matters for Events in Melbourne 

Melbourne is a vibrant hub of cultural festivals, marathons, food and wine expos, and large-scale sporting events. With these events attracting thousands of attendees, traffic congestion, pedestrian risks, and emergency access become real concerns. 

Without proper traffic management, events can lead to: 

• Increased risk to pedestrians and drivers 
• Emergency access blockages 
• Public transport disruption 
• Resident dissatisfaction 

That’s why a professional and compliant traffic management plan (TMP) is critical for event success and public safety. 

Key Components of Traffic Management Planning 

Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements every event organiser must address when planning traffic management: 

1. Initial Site Assessment

An on-site inspection helps determine: 

• Expected crowd size and vehicular movement 
• Potential conflict zones between traffic and pedestrians 
• Existing infrastructure limitations 

Our team conducts site-specific risk assessments in line with VicRoads guidelines and prepares a traffic strategy that meets permit requirements. 

2. Road Closures and Detours

Strategic road closures help reduce traffic congestion and improve pedestrian safety around event zones. This includes: 

• Local road shutdowns 
• Diversion signage 
• Resident access management 

View our road closure and detour solutions for more insight. 

3. Permit Applications and Council Approvals

Melbourne event organisers must secure permits from local councils and VicRoads. Our experienced planners assist with: 

• Traffic Management Plans (TMPs) 
• Occupancy Permits 
• Memorandums of Authorisation (MOA) 

We ensure the necessary paperwork is submitted correctly and on time. 

4. Event Signage and Devices

Clear, compliant signage is essential for: 

• Wayfinding for event-goers 
• Indicating road closures and detours 
• Communicating with motorists and pedestrians 

At Barleys, we follow AS 1742 standards to ensure all signs are visible, reflective, and positioned correctly. 

5. Certified Traffic Controllers

For events in Melbourne’s CBD or suburban zones, certified traffic controllers are required. Our team: 

• Manages vehicle and pedestrian flow 
• Provides clear hand signals and communication 
• Responds quickly to emergencies and road users 

Check out our traffic control services for events of all sizes. 

Crowd Management and Public Safety Considerations 

Effective crowd management during events isn’t just about handling large numbers of people—it’s about maintaining continuous safe movement while preparing for unexpected incidents. 

Key Crowd Safety Tactics Include: 

• Temporary fencing or barriers to separate zones 
• Wayfinding signs for toilets, exits, and first aid 
• Rapid communication between ground teams and event managers 
• Evacuation planning and drills 

Barleys Traffic Management supports you with thorough emergency contingency planning for every event. 

Event Types That Require Detailed Traffic Management 

Learn more about how we support council-approved events in Melbourne and surrounds. 

Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Traffic Strategy for Your Event 

Step 1: Define the Scope 

Outline the size, location, timings, and nature of your event. 

Step 2: Consult a Traffic Management Company 

Get expert input from professionals like Barleys who understand the local traffic environment and regulations. 

Step 3: Conduct a Risk Assessment 

Identify traffic risks such as blind spots, pedestrian crossings, and emergency access. 

Step 4: Develop a Traffic Guidance Scheme (TGS) 

This includes the layout of signs, barriers, cones, lighting, and personnel deployment. 

Step 5: Submit Plans for Approval 

Provide your TMP to the relevant road authorities and council. 

Step 6: Deploy the Plan on Event Day 

Install signage, brief traffic controllers, test communications and ensure your site is safe and compliant. 

Common Traffic Control Devices Used 

Explore more event equipment hire options at Barleys. 

Managing Road Closures and Local Access 

Melbourne’s inner-city streets are often residential or commercial zones. We ensure: 

• Local resident and business notifications 
• Emergency vehicle access always maintained 
• Minimal disruption to public transport or freight 

We also assist in drafting Construction Traffic Impact Assessments (CTIAs) when required by council. 

Communication with Stakeholders 

Clear communication is vital. Barleys helps coordinate with: 

• Victoria Police and emergency services 
• Council officers and permit approvers 
• Local residents and affected businesses 

We also provide public notifications and detour maps in print and digital formats. 

Technology and Innovation in Event Traffic Planning 

We use intelligent traffic systems (ITS), including: 

• GPS-enabled traffic control vehicles 
• Real-time signage updates 
• CCTV monitoring and response 

These tools allow dynamic changes to traffic flows, especially for moving events like marathons or parades. 

Post-Event Decommissioning 

After the event, traffic signs and devices must be: 

• Removed or deactivated immediately 
• Stored and maintained properly 
• Followed by a review and incident reporting 

Our team ensures the safe and compliant removal of all equipment and personnel. 

Tips for Successful Event Traffic Management in Melbourne 

• Always hire certified professionals 
• Start your permit applications at least 6–8 weeks in advance 
• Include pedestrian and cyclist safety in your planning 
• Maintain clear access for emergency vehicles 
• Use real-time communication tools for updates and emergency notifications 

Why Choose Barleys Traffic Management? 

Based in Melbourne, Victoria, Barleys is known for: 

• Decades of local expertise 
• End-to-end event traffic solutions 
• Fully certified traffic controllers 
• Tailored TMPs and council coordination 

From major events at Federation Square to suburban street festivals, we ensure smooth, compliant traffic operations from start to finish. 

Visit our homepage for more info on how we can support your next Melbourne event.