Project Overview

In partnership with the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), SAFEgroup Automation (SGA) delivered AI-powered camera systems across high-risk intersections in South Australia.

Traffic congestion was costing the state economy over $33,000 for every 5,000 motorists delayed by just 20 minutes. To address this, SGA implemented AI-based traffic detection and control, avoiding large-scale construction while improving safety and efficiency.

The cameras detect and respond to real-time traffic conditions, easing pressure in congested zones and reducing collision risks.

This rollout marked one of Australia’s first steps toward AI-driven traffic control, with immediate effectiveness across a variety of intersection types.
About the client

SA’s Department of Transport Needed a better solution

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) manages South Australia’s transport systems and infrastructure. Their goal is to ensure safe, efficient movement across road, rail, and public transport networks while improving economic and community outcomes.

For this project, DIT sought a partner that could deliver innovative, cost-effective technology to tackle traffic congestion and safety concerns.

Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT)

  • Location: Multiple intersections across South Australia, including Heaslip Road, Penfield, Paradise, and Old Noarlunga
  • Industry: Transport / Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)

For this project, DIT needed a partner who could deliver innovative and cost-effective technology to solve pressing traffic challenges across multiple intersections.

Before SGA’s involvement, the intersections relied on traditional traffic signals and fixed-timing infrastructure that offered little flexibility in managing real-world conditions. There were no intelligent systems in place to monitor traffic flow, predict congestion, or respond dynamically to sudden changes on the road.

As a result, motorists faced long delays, blocked turn lanes, and risky merges that often spilled congestion back onto major roads and expressways. Mid-block congestion, along with the demands of pedestrian crossings and bus priority, further complicated the situation.

The lack of smart traffic management meant each site was essentially starting from scratch, requiring a modern, adaptive solution to improve safety and efficiency without resorting to costly roadworks

Traffic Incident Prior to SGA’s involvement
Project Duration: March 2024 – June 2025

SGA’s Involvement: AI Cameras that control traffic Flow

SGA delivered a full end-to-end solution covering design, engineering, integration, and commissioning.

Operators were given the ability to monitor and control traffic locally or remotely, with historical recording of ingredient usage, procedures, and operator responses. The system was aligned with government privacy and cybersecurity standards to ensure safe, real-time operation.

AI Camera Systems

  • Supply, configuration, and deployment of Bosch AI cameras for vehicle, bus, bicycle, and pedestrian detection
  • Setup of AI-based “virtual loops” to replace traditional physical detection hardware
  • Installation of pole-mounted camera infrastructure at multiple intersections

PLC Programming and Integration

  • Development of PLC logic for conditional signal holds and adaptive traffic light timing
  • Integration of AI camera outputs into programmable logic controllers for real-time responsiveness

Traffic Management Interfaces

  • Integration with STREAMS and SCATS platforms for centralised traffic management
  • Live data feeds into DIT’s Traffic Management Centre (TMC) for operator visibility

Electrical Design and CAD Drafting

  • Full electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for field installations
  • CAD drafting for pole-mounted enclosures, camera brackets, and control panels

IT Network Design and Secure Communications

  • Design of network architecture to securely connect cameras, PLCs, and traffic controllers
  • Deployment of secure communication protocols to protect live traffic data

Hardware and Panel Upgrades

  • Supply and installation of upgraded roadside control panels designed for harsh outdoor conditions
  • Integration of new hardware with existing signal controllers and traffic infrastructure

Commissioning and Testing

  • Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to verify traffic detection accuracy and signal response
  • Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) in alignment with DIT protocols
  • Night-time and live-environment testing across multiple intersections

Training and Documentation

  • Operator training sessions for DIT traffic management staff
  • Comprehensive functional description documents and technical manuals for long-term maintainability

Ongoing Support

  • Technical support for system troubleshooting and updates
  • Continuous monitoring assistance and availability for system expansion
  • Reduced collisions at Heaslip Road roundabout
  • Improved traffic flow during peak periods
  • Repeatable model rolled out to other intersections (Penfield, Paradise, Old Noarlunga)
  • Significant cost savings compared to major roadworks
  • National recognition as a benchmark for AI-driven traffic control
Heaslip rd AI Camera Demo

They’ll save lives, they’ll save time, and they’ll save money.”

Hon. Tom Koutsantonis MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

Media Attention & Future Outlook

The rollout drew attention from both state and national media, including 7News, 9News, ABC News, The Sydney Morning Herald, and Glam Adelaide.

It was praised by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport as a solution that “saves lives, saves time, and saves money.”

Looking forward, SGA sees potential to expand this technology to:

  • School zones and hospital precincts
  • Shopping strips and highway exits
  • Construction detours and other congestion points

Anywhere traffic flow and safety matter, AI detection and adaptive control can make a measurable difference.