Bollards remain a crucial security feature in a wide range of environments: from urban and retail centres, to pedestrian crossings. They serve as a trusted barrier against today’s evolving threats, such as unauthorised vehicle access which may lead to incidents or property damage. Beyond their role in controlling vehicle entry, bollards also play a vital part in protecting pedestrians and securing sensitive areas and, while their primary purpose is to enhance safety and security, they must also complement and preserve the surrounding urban aesthetics.
As technology continues to advance, it is transforming how cities are managed and protected. Traditional bollards are now being enhanced with modern integrations such as automated smart sensors, vehicle detection systems and data-driven control capabilities. This modernisation has become essential to address the growing challenges of pedestrian safety, traffic congestion and the ever-evolving nature of public security threats.
Conventional barriers alone may no longer suffice to meet the demands of contemporary society. An adaptable and intelligent bollard system is now key to effective urban planning, particularly for cities striving to become smarter and more secure.
Such a sentiment is further supported by a recent Markets and Markets research that predicts the smart city market to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.6% within the 2025-2030 period, ultimately reaching A$2.18 by 2030. So, what are the latest technological innovations shaping the bollard landscape today? Read on to find out.
Key Technological Innovations in Bollards for 2025/2026
Modern bollard systems are becoming increasingly advanced, combining mechanical strength with intelligent technology to deliver adaptable and efficient protection. These innovations not only improve operational convenience but also enhance response time, safety and integration within wider security infrastructures. Key innovations for 2025-2026 include:
- Automated Retractable, Sliding and Telescopic Systems
Automation has revolutionised the way bollards operate in high-traffic and sensitive areas. Retractable and telescopic bollards can be raised or lowered automatically, allowing controlled vehicle access without compromising pedestrian safety. Powered hydraulically or electromechanically, they offer fast, reliable performance and are ideal for sites requiring dynamic access management.
- Smart Sensors and Vehicle Detection Technology
Smart sensors have made bollards more responsive and situationally aware. Integrated vehicle detection systems can recognise approaching vehicles, differentiate authorised from unauthorised access and trigger automated responses. Some systems also feature obstacle detection, halting movement instantly to prevent accidents or equipment damage.
- Remote and IoT-Enabled Control Systems
IoT integration allows real-time monitoring and control of bollards from centralised command systems. Security teams can receive instant alerts, monitor operational status and adjust settings remotely. Doing so enhances responsiveness and minimises downtime. This is particularly valuable for large campuses, city centres and transport networks.
- Integration with Access Control and Security Networks
Modern bollards can connect seamlessly with existing security frameworks such as CCTV, number plate recognition and alarm systems. This integrated approach strengthens situational awareness and enables coordinated incident response, improving overall security performance.
The Benefits of Adopting Advanced Bollard Systems
The shift towards advanced bollards is more than just a technological upgrade, it is a long-term investment in safer, smarter urban infrastructure. The benefits are…
- Enhanced Security and Safety
Crash-rated designs and smart automation offer advanced protection against vehicle-borne threats, ensuring pedestrian and property safety even in high-risk areas.
- Operational Efficiency and Rapid Deployment
Automation and remote management streamline operation, allowing quick deployment during peak hours or emergencies without heavy manual input.
- Durability and Low Maintenance
Constructed from robust materials with modular designs, intelligent bollards are built to last. Self-diagnostic features help detect and report faults early, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Smart Monitoring and Future-proof Design
IoT connectivity provides actionable data regarding performance and usage, enabling predictive maintenance and seamless upgrades as technology evolves. This ensures long-term adaptability and cost efficiency.
Applications of Modern Bollards
Modern bollard systems address diverse security needs while enhancing the visual harmony of public spaces. Their versatility makes them a key component in both safety management and urban design. Examples include:
- Urban Centres and Pedestrian Zones
In busy city precincts, automated bollards manage vehicle access dynamically, which restricts entry during pedestrian-heavy hours and retracts for authorised service or emergency vehicles. This balance keeps public areas open, accessible when needed and safe.
- Government Buildings, Transport Hubs and Critical Infrastructure
Crash-rated and sensor-integrated bollards provide discreet but powerful protection for sensitive sites. Their intelligent control and seamless design strengthen security without creating an overly fortified look, preserving public confidence and accessibility.
- Retail Precincts, Outdoor Dining Areas and Event Venues
In commercial and recreational settings, retractable or removable bollards offer flexible protection. They safeguard patrons and pedestrians during busy hours while allowing open, welcoming spaces for social or business activities.
Compliance with Australian Standards and Safety Regulations
Compliance is crucial in ensuring bollard systems deliver verified protection. Internationally, PAS 68 and IWA 14-1 are the recognised benchmarks for impact testing, defining how bollards should perform under vehicle collision scenarios. Products tested to these standards provide proven assurance of crash resistance and stopping capability.
In Australia, these benchmarks align with AS/NZS 3845.2:2017, the national standard governing road safety barrier systems, including crash-rated bollards. It outlines requirements for design, testing, installation and maintenance, ensuring all systems meet rigorous safety expectations. Together, these standards guarantee that modern bollards not only perform under pressure, but also comply with local regulatory frameworks and global best practice.
ISO Testing: Global Benchmarks for Bollard Safety
In addition to local and regional standards, modern bollard systems are increasingly tested against ISO-certified methodologies, which provide internationally recognised benchmarks for impact resistance and structural integrity. ISO 16933:2021, for example, outlines procedures for the controlled crash testing of vehicle security barriers, including bollards, under various impact scenarios. By adhering to these standards, manufacturers can demonstrate that their products perform reliably against vehicles of different sizes and speeds, offering a globally accepted measure of safety.
Testing under ISO protocols often involves rigorous evaluations, including high-speed impact simulations, repeated collision assessments, and long-term durability trials. This ensures that advanced bollard systems not only meet compliance requirements but also maintain consistent performance over time. For clients and urban planners, ISO-tested bollards provide confidence that protection levels are verified to international best practice, complementing local standards such as AS/NZS 3845.2:2017.
EZI Security Systems: The Leading Advanced Bollard Systems Partner in Australia
As cities and communities evolve, so must their approach to safety and security. Advanced bollard systems embody this progress. They merge mechanical strength, smart technology and aesthetic design to create safer, more adaptable environments. Whether for busy pedestrian areas, high-security facilities or commercial precincts, these systems offer a future-proof solution for modern urban protection.
At EZI Security, we specialise in advanced bollard and perimeter security solutions tailored to Australia’s diverse environments. With expertise in design, installation and compliance, we help clients protect people and property without compromising on functionality or visual appeal.
Get in touch with us today to explore how our advanced bollard systems can strengthen your site’s security to keep your surroundings safe and secure.