In Australia’s traffic management industry, clients are often faced with a choice between large, nationally scaled providers and locally grounded operations. Both models have merit depending on the scope, complexity and responsiveness needed for a project. However, when consistency, clarity and readiness are priorities — especially for mid-tier contractors, councils or event organisers — the differences between providers become significant.
This blog explores key service distinctions between AAA Traffic Control and Altus Traffic. Our focus is on factual, operational points based on publicly available information and service transparency. Our aim is to inform prospective clients about how our approach to traffic management planning differs in delivery, scope and real-world application.
Full-scope planning services
AAA Traffic Control offers an extensive range of in-house planning documentation, including Traffic Guidance Schemes (TGS), Traffic Management Plans (TMP), Construction Traffic Management Plans (CTMP), Swept Path Plans (SPP) and Vehicle Movement Plans (VMP). These are developed using specialised tools like RapidPlan and Nearmap to ensure accuracy and compliance with the Traffic Control at Worksites (TCAWS) Manual and Australian Standards.
By contrast, Altus Traffic does not provide this level of planning breakdown publicly on their website. While they state that they handle traffic plans and permits, the exact scope, methodology or planning formats (such as CTMP or VMP) are not detailed. For clients who require transparency in planning stages or documentation tailored to specific council or project formats, this can limit visibility and project certainty from the outset.
24/7 emergency response with two-hour dispatch commitment
AAA Traffic Control maintains an on-call emergency traffic management service 24 hours a day, with a publicly committed two-hour dispatch timeframe. This readiness is critical in situations where urgent road incidents, utility failures or public safety threats arise outside standard working hours. Our system ensures that both personnel and traffic control equipment can be mobilised and coordinated in real time, including with local authorities.
Altus Traffic does not advertise an emergency-specific offering or a defined dispatch timeline on their website. While their large workforce may imply capacity, without an express public commitment, clients managing critical infrastructure or high-risk areas may find greater certainty in AAA’s formalised approach.
Transparent, modular equipment hire
AAA offers a detailed catalogue of Sydney traffic control equipment for hire, including traffic cones, barricades, water-filled and concrete barriers, variable message signs (VMS), directional arrow boards, light towers and kerb ramps. This service is available both with and without staffing, allowing clients to flexibly use equipment on their own terms.
Altus Traffic also provides equipment hire, but the equipment types listed online are generalised (e.g., VMS, arrow boards, portable signals). There is less publicly available information on modular rental terms, standalone usage options or minor equipment inclusions like kerb ramps. For smaller-scale projects or temporary needs where flexibility is essential, AAA’s granular transparency is a practical advantage.
Localised permit assistance
AAA offers support for a wide range of permit applications, including Road Occupancy Licences (ROL), Council Permits, State Transit Authority (STA) approvals and emergency services coordination. Our planners actively liaise with relevant authorities to streamline approvals, reduce wait times and avoid non-compliance during project rollouts.
While Altus Traffic states that they assist with plans and permits, the exact types of permits and government body coordination are not itemised on their website. For clients unfamiliar with local government processes or who require direct liaison support with multiple departments, the clarity offered by AAA can reduce administrative friction and project hold-ups.
Focused geographic strength in NSW
AAA Traffic Control has over 20 years of operational experience focused specifically on New South Wales. This provides deep familiarity with local road authorities, council requirements and Sydney-based infrastructure and events. It also allows our teams to maintain consistent field deployment standards across the region.
Altus Traffic operates across six Australian states, which speaks of scale. However, for projects where detailed knowledge of local road rules, metropolitan events or council-specific documentation requirements is crucial, a concentrated operational footprint often results in better local execution.
Clearly defined controller roles
AAA provides TfNSW-accredited traffic controllers, team leaders and Truck Mounted Attenuator (TMA) operators with transparent breakdowns of responsibilities. This allows clients to understand site structure, supervision layers and reporting protocols from the outset.
Altus does note accredited controllers on staff but does not specify controller designations or levels of supervision per site. Without clear differentiation between operational roles, it can be harder for clients to predict on-site dynamics, especially in higher-risk environments.
Experience the AAA Traffic Control difference
Choosing the right traffic management provider is about more than credentials or equipment. It comes down to clarity, responsiveness and confidence in how services will be delivered when it matters most. At AAA Traffic Control, our NSW-centric approach, detailed planning processes, emergency readiness and transparent equipment offerings provide a consistent operational standard that’s easy to work with, audit and scale.
We invite contractors, council officers and event coordinators to view our full suite of services. If you already know what support you’re after — whether it’s assistance with a traffic guidance scheme, permit approvals or boots on the ground — request a quote today. We’ll show you how practical, fully compliant traffic management should work in real-world conditions, from first plan to final placement.
Disclaimer: This comparison is based on publicly available information on official company websites at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, service offerings may change or be incomplete online. We recommend confirming details directly with providers for the most current and comprehensive information.
