Introduction
Australia is an ever-popular destination for holidays. The basis of the appeal lies somewhere between the easy-going people, the great weather, the sprawling landscapes, the beaches, the barbecues and, of course, the wildlife. There’s so much to discover on this continent, there’s little wonder that people generally extend their stay to months at a time. There’s a wide range of places to go and things to experience all of which depend on which part of this vast continent you visit. Most people tend to move from place to place to get the most of their holiday, exploring the outback, the vibrant cities and fantastic beaches.
Driving in Australia
Road Driving Side
Urban Speed Limit
Rural Speed Limit
Motorway Speed Limit
Important things to note
If you go driving in the outback, do not expect to get a good mobile phone reception. It’s recommended to plan your journey before travelling as well as making sure you have enough fuel to keep you going – there are few petrol stations or towns to find help.
Whilst travelling in Melbourne, beware the trams and streetcars that operate around the city and inner suburbs. Dotted yellow lines over the tram tracks indicate that cars are permitted to drive over the tracks. You cannot drive over the tram track with a solid yellow line.
Motorways, bridges and tunnels in and around the cities of Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney require payment of tolls. In Melbourne, and some other places, tolls are paid electronically via a transponder rather than in cash or by credit card.
Driving culture in Australia
What are the roads like Australia?
The road infrastructure is very good and the conditions of the roads tend to be excellent. Even the main roads beyond the cities are good quality being well sealed, asphalt roads.
What are Australian drivers like?
Typically, Australian drivers are fairly easy-going. While there has been an increase in road rage in recent years, this generally isn’t a problem for those drivers who are patient and observe the rules of the road. However, the roads in the Outback vary somewhat in quality and can be considered more dangerous than highways as there are no barriers or divisions from oncoming traffic.
What are the best times to drive?
It’s recommended to avoid rush hour around the most congested cities such as Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne which, in the morning, is between 6am and 9am and in the evening between 4:30 and 7pm. Roads can generally be deserted when driving in the outback, but take extra care at night and plan well for your trip – ensuring that you have plenty of fuel and provisions.
What are the driving laws?
It is compulsory to wear seatbelts in both front and rear seats of the vehicle.
Children and babies must be seated using an appropriate child restraint for their size.
If you have an accident in Australia, which involves any person being injured or where there is property damage, the law states that you must contact the appropriate emergency authorities.
When parking, ensure you park on the left hand side of the road, clear of traffic. You will incur a fine for parking on the opposite side and facing oncoming traffic.
You cannot use a mobile handset for calls, texts or internet while driving as this is against the law. It is recommended to use a hands-free kit if you want to speak on your mobile phone whilst driving.