A Footpath is a strip of concrete, asphalt, pavers, bitumen seal or crushed rock laid between the back of kerb and the property boundary (or elsewhere) for use as a path by pedestrians.
The Glossary of Austroads Terms defines a footpath as a "public way reserved for the movement of pedestrians and of manually propelled vehicles."
The Australian Road Rules define a footpath as "an area open to the public that is designated for, or has as one of its main uses, use by pedestrians."
The useful life of a footpath will depend on a number of factors including soil conditions, the material it is made from, its thickness, and the proximity of trees. A life of 40-50 years is typical for concrete footpaths in some areas.
The majority of footpaths are typically constructed from either; asphalt, concrete, pavers or gravel. In the case of concrete footpaths additives may be added to colour the footpath or even make it glow in the dark.
Part 6A of the Austroads Guide to Road Design provides guidance for road designers and other practitioners on the design of paths for safe and efficient walking and cycling.