What is a Traffic Specialist (for Traffic Control Plans)?

A Traffic Specialist is a consultant who prepares a Traffic Control Plan (TCP), detailing how vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be safely managed around your construction site. Councils often require a TCP for works that impact roads, footpaths, or public areas — including deliveries, scaffolding setups, crane lifts, or kerb works.



The Traffic Control Plan must be prepared and approved before any work affecting the public domain starts.

What does a Traffic Specialist do?

Your Traffic Specialist will complete works according to your agreed scope.


Typically, they will:

  • Review your site location, council regulations, and construction scope
  • Create a diagram showing proposed temporary traffic management
  • Specify signage, barricades, flagmen, and detour routes (if needed)
  • Submit the TCP for council approval (or provide for you to lodge)
  • Liaise with council, police, or RMS if additional permits are needed


Some specialists also coordinate approvals for Road Occupancy Licences if required.

Barry's Toolbox

If you need cranes, scaffold, material deliveries or site fencing near the street — you’ll almost certainly need a TCP. Don’t wait — councils often take 2–4 weeks to approve traffic plans.


And double-check: even short-term activities like concrete pours might trigger TCP and road closure requirements.

What to look for in a Traffic Specialist

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Preparation of TCP diagram(s) based on real site conditions
  • Inclusions for council lodgement assistance (optional)
  • Clear breakdown of costs for revisions or updates
  • Timeline for draft and final TCP submission
  • Experience with your local council’s processes and requirements


Specialists familiar with residential construction (not just commercial worksites) are highly recommended.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Traffic Specialists, you’ll need:

  • Site plan and location details
  • Scope of external works (e.g., deliveries, crane lifts, scaffolding)
  • Dates or periods of work impacting roads or footpaths
  • Any existing council DA conditions
  • Target submission and approval timeframe

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can my builder prepare a TCP?

    Not usually — certified Traffic Controllers or specialists prepare compliant TCPs that councils accept.

  • What happens if I don’t get a TCP approved?

    You risk stop work notices, fines, or insurance breaches if you affect public areas without an approved plan.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.