Bridges - our weakest link or strength of Australia's economy?

The road network is critical for the Australian economy through the movement of freight and for quality of life.

Bridges are a critical part of the Australian road network, but they are sometimes taken for granted. They connect people, businesses and communities – making it possible for us to safely and reliably cross rivers, creeks and other obstacles.

Bridges have undergone significant change through history. They have been designed to varying standards, based on the best available knowledge, experience and technology available at the time. In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, bridges were made from timber and masonry and designed to safely transport 15-tonne steam rollers.

Throughout the 1900’s, the design loads increased as technology and materials improved with modern computing and analysis, enabling the use of materials like steel, concrete and more recently carbon fibre in bridges.

At the same time, the mass of the freight being carried has increased with vehicles more than 80 tonnes now regularly using the road network. This creates a major challenge for road authorities, especially for local government, which has many bridges designed to much lesser loading still in service.

The Australian Government and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) commenced the Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (SLGAAP) in late 2019. As part of this, ARRB has been working with local governments to assist them with the inventory, assessment, and management of their bridge stock.

Over the past year, ARRB has been undertaking level two and level three bridge inspections and Tier one, two and three assessments of structures across Australia. Line model analysis, 3D modelling and analysis, and strengthening assessment and recommendations has also been part of the scope.

We’ve also been working closely with local governments to understand their bridge and culvert capacities, optimise heavy vehicle access and help manage risk due to heavy vehicle access.

Whether you’re from a local government, a state or territory road authority or a private operator, ARRB has the capability and the expertise to help you with the inspection and assessment of your bridges, culverts and other road structures.

To find out more about ARRB, the Asset Performance team or bridge assessments, contact us at info@arrb.com.au or click here

This article originally appeared in Roads and Infrastructure Magazine's December 2021 issue.