Technology, data and collaboration were in the spotlight at ITS Australia’s flagship Mobility 2026 conference, where transport leaders explored ways to deliver more seamless, inclusive and user-focused transport networks.
More than 50 speakers from almost 30 government, industry and academic organisations attended the event in Brisbane, hosted by the Queensland Government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, with support from Transmax and Queensland University of Technology (QUT).
The conference focused on how intelligent transport systems can improve accessibility and equity while supporting safer and more efficient transport networks.
Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads Director-General, Sally Stannard, highlighted the role of Australia’s intelligent transport systems sector in advancing mobility and equity across the country.
Keynote speaker, WSP Global Digital Lead for Intelligent Mobility, Dr Ollie Teall, reinforced the importance of user experience in delivering seamless mobility outcomes.
Sessions showcased examples of integrated transport approaches already improving safety, sustainability and accessibility.
Discussions explored advances in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and automated vehicles, highlighting their potential to improve road safety while ensuring accessibility and equity are considered from the earliest stages of deployment.
Speakers also examined emerging approaches to multimodal planning, active transport analysis and low-cost sensing technologies that are helping agencies better understand travel behaviour and identify gaps in transport access.
ITS Australia Chief Executive Officer, Susan Harris, said accessibility was a consistent theme throughout the conference.
“It was so exciting to see examples of technology being used to enhance accessibility for all,” Harris said.
“Examples such as Hailo’s real-time two-way app ensuring no passenger gets left behind, Queensland’s Transport and Main Roads work to design an accessible automated bus, and presentations by NEC on the use of Bluetooth Auracast and its application to enhancing public transport announcements for the hearing impaired and others.
“I’m looking forward to seeing wider deployment of these technological advancements.”
The conference highlighted a growing industry focus on accessibility as a driver of innovation rather than simply a compliance requirement.
Delegates also emphasised the importance of partnerships between government, industry and academia in supporting transport innovation, network operations, long-term planning and policy development.
ITS Australia said it would continue working with members and partners to drive innovation across the sector ahead of the ITS Australia Global Summit in Melbourne later this year.
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