Unsealed road grading

 A grader is used to clear gravel from the roadside edge drains and trim the top layer of road gravel to produce an even road surface. Sometimes we may use a water cart to spray the road surface and any loose gravel, which helps to achieve the desired compaction. After this, we use a smooth drum roller to compact the gravel. The grader may then do a final pass to trim any high spots.

Grading of unsealed roads is completed to a schedule, this can be viewed further down the page.

The delivery of the program works may be delayed due to:

• Inclement (wet) weather – the road can be damaged if grading is undertaken on a wet road;
• Other maintenance being prioritised due to emergency events and situations;
• Operational impacts - including but not limited to mechanical outages and resourcing;
• Water restrictions during drought – as grading requires water as part of the process.

We notify residents in advance where we may need to close the road while grading.

In New South Wales, roads without posted speed limit signs generally fall under the default speed limit of 100km/h for rural or non-built-up areas. However, this default does not explicitly apply to unsealed roads, which are often dirt or gravel tracks in regional and remote areas. Unsealed roads may lack features that allow safe travel at high speeds, such as lane markings, smooth surfaces, or adequate width.

Because unsealed roads can be hazardous, the assumed speed limit is effectively determined by what is safe for the conditions. Drivers are legally required to adjust their speed according to road quality, visibility, weather, and traffic. Travelling 100km/h on a rough or narrow unsealed road may significantly increase the risk of crashes, injuries, or fatalities.

Recommendations for travelling safely on unsealed roads:

• Drive slower than the 100km/h default for rural roads, often around 60–80 km/h depending on conditions;
• Reduce speed further in poor weather, on steep grades, or when visibility is limited;
• Always prioritise safety over the theoretical default speed, as exceeding a safe speed can result in legal liability and increased crash risk.

While NSW has a 100km/h default for rural roads, unsealed roads do not have a formal assumed speed limit. Drivers must use judgment and drive at a safe speed appropriate to the road conditions.

Note: This table is updated quarterly.

Note: This table is updated quarterly.