ABSTRACT
Australia’s freight task is growing at a rapid rate due to unprecedented population growth, coupled with increased demand from our trading partners in Asia and rapid changes in technology, e-commerce and consumer behavior. A significant proportion of freight is transported using the road network and to remain competitive this network needs to facilitate fast, efficient and effective access. This is a significant challenge with an ageing bridge network, the regularly extreme climatic conditions and the freight industry constantly pushing to increase access and allowable loads.In rising to this challenge, Australia’s infrastructure managers are being innovative, using the latest standards and technology in building new bridges and assessing existing bridges and utilizing the latest technology in managing existing bridge structures. In partnership with academic institutions and with funding from the State and Federal Governments, there has been significant research and development with the monitoring, modelling, assessment and strengthening of bridges.This paper will outline what is currently being done to rise to this significant challenge and also recommend future research and development to continue to meet this challenge.
