Zhao, Ruiyi (The University of New South Wales), Rashidi, Taha Hossein (The University of New South Wales), Waller, S. Travis (University of New South Wales)

ABM-ETOP: Agent-Based Modelling for Transport Equity Policy Optimisation

Scheduled for presentation during the Regular Session "S34a-Data-Driven Optimization and Governance in Intelligent Urban Mobility" (FR-LM-T34), Friday, November 21, 2025, 11:30−11:50, Surfers Paradise 1

2025 IEEE 28th International Conference on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSC), November 18-21, 2025, Gold Coast, Australia

This information is tentative and subject to change. Compiled on October 18, 2025

Abstract

Despite considerable public investment, transport systems commonly result in significant disparities in outcomes across different socioeconomic backgrounds. We propose the Agent-Based Model for Equity-Transport Optimisation and Policy (ABM-ETOP) framework, a novel computational approach that integrates a custom-built agent-based model and Bayesian optimisation specifically designed for the rigorous evaluation of transport policy interventions. In this study, the ABM-ETOP framework is used to investigate the optimal allocation of transport subsidies for the improvements of mode share equity, travel time equity, and overall system efficiency. Analysis using this framework reveals considerable pre-intervention disparities (e.g., low-income: 35.6% public transit, 18.4% car vs. high-income: 14.5% public transit, 58.9% car). Furthermore, applying optimal subsidy levels identified by the framework demonstrates substantial improvements: a 3.0× enhancement in modal equity distribution, an 8.0× improvement in temporal accessibility fairness, and a 1.3× reduction in aggregate system travel burden. Thus, ABM-ETOP offers a powerful tool for evidence-based policy design that addresses persistent equity concerns while supporting system efficiency.