Alpha Numeric Route numbers

Datasets
1

A new Road Numbering System The NSW Government has made significant improvement to how motorists can find their way across NSW. Roads and Maritime has implemented a new system of alpha-numeric route numbering.

This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://opendata.transport.nsw.gov.au/dataset/alpha-numeric-route-numbers
2

alphanumeric route identification gpkg resource now updated to include M8

3

Any updates? I’ve seeing new signage going up but no data refresh.

For example, Dobroyd Pde, Haberfield and the surrounding has the A4 shield but A44 signs are appearing. The new Princes Mwy, Albion Park Rail bypass has M1 shields, and the old highway still displays A1. The motorway sound of the Albion Park Rail is displaying M1 shields but the data still says A1.

I’m sure there has been other progress around the state since 2021 too. Lookin forward to an update :slight_smile:

4

Hi Brendan,

we are looking into this now. Thanks!

5

It doesn’t look like there’s been any updates since Feb 24, 2021. An update scheduled soon? :slight_smile:

6

I hear we have a new M11. Any news to share? :slight_smile:

7

Hi @Brendan, still trying to find a data owner. We’re working on it!

8

Hi @Brendan,

Just to let you know there is now a working group within Transport that is looking at the route numbering strategy and one of the outcomes is updating this dataset.
They are aiming for an update before the year is out.

I’ll keep you posted on this. Thanks for your patience!

9

I see this dataset has been “updated” Aug 2023. But I also note M8 and M11 are missing.
Princes Motorway is also not up to date.

10

The last updated date was changed on all datasets when we migrated to the new platform in August this year.:slight_smile:

11

An updated version of the NSW alphanumeric route numbering dataset has been released, establishing a 2025 baseline for the state’s classified route network. This update refines the existing framework to ensure consistency between digital representations and physical wayfinding infrastructure.

Key Objectives of the Update

  • Alignment with field conditions: Route geometries, numbering, and focal points have been reviewed to match current on-road signage and network changes.
  • Data integrity: Addresses discrepancies accumulated since the initial rollout of the alphanumeric system, improving reliability for GIS, navigation, and planning applications.
  • Baseline establishment: Provides a stable reference point for future updates under the NSW Route Numbering Strategy (horizon to 2050).

Route Numbering Framework

NSW continues to utilise a two-digit alphanumeric scheme (1–99) in accordance with AS 1742.15 – Direction Signs, Information Signs and Route Numbering. Routes are classified into three functional tiers:

  • M routes (Motorways):
    High-standard, controlled-access corridors forming the primary backbone of the network.

  • A routes (Primary arterial links):
    Major inter-regional corridors connecting capital cities, regional centres, and interstate routes.

  • B routes (Secondary connectors):
    Supporting routes providing intra-regional connectivity and linking local centres to higher-order corridors.

2025 Baseline Changes

  • Rationalisation of route extents and termini to reflect actual usage and traffic function
  • Adjustment of route numbering where required to remove inconsistencies or legacy artefacts
  • Improved spatial accuracy of route alignments within the dataset
  • Standardisation of focal points for continuity in navigation systems

National Context

The NSW system remains broadly aligned with the nationally agreed “MABC” classification model adopted across Australian jurisdictions. However, consistent with previous implementation, NSW does not assign ‘C’ route designations, maintaining a simplified M–A–B hierarchy to support intuitive driver wayfinding.

This dataset update is particularly relevant for practitioners working in:

  • GIS and spatial data management
  • Transport modelling and network analysis
  • Navigation and routing systems
  • Infrastructure planning and asset management

The 2025 baseline should be treated as the authoritative reference for route numbering in NSW going forward, with subsequent updates expected to build incrementally on this foundation.

1 Like
12

Thanks for publishing this dataset. A couple of questions and comments:

  1. Is City West Link / Parramatta road really designated A4 where it runs alongside M4? The signs on the ground all say A44. The only route signed A4 seems to be the Anzac Bridge, and there’s a strong argument that should be M4 too.
  2. The dataset shows A40 following the Rozelle Tunnel at its terminus, whereas the signs on the ground show the route following the bypassed section of Victoria Road. It makes way more sense for the route to use the tunnel, but given the discrepancy I’m curious as to which is correct.
  3. The map data assumes the Hexham Bridge motorway extension is complete, but a tiny section of the New England Highway marked as A1, which presumably is an error.
  4. I know TfNSW isn’t responsible for route numbers in the ACT, but since you include them in your dataset it’s worth pointing out that they are incorrect. There is no such route number as B23 in the ACT, and the M23 runs parallel to the A23 throughout much of its route.