Moving to Australia for study is an exciting adventure. With an almost unlimited number of parks, beaches, mountains and interesting cultural and recreational sights to explore, it’s no wonder that many international tourists and students plan on driving when they arrive. Even just to manage your everyday life, having your own transportation can be super helpful.
But, it’s important to remember that every country (and even every state and territory in Australia!) has its own rules, and it’s up to you to keep on top of them to ensure yours and your fellow road-users’ safety.
Here are some of Australia’s most common road rules and considerations that you’ll encounter, but be sure to check the government transportation website for your particular state to get exact details.
In Australia, we drive on the left
The first rule, and one that is consistent across the whole country, is that Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road, which also means that most of our vehicles are right-hand drive. This might feel a bit strange at first if you’re used to driving on the right-hand side of the road, so make sure you take some time to adjust; begin in quieter, familiar areas if possible. Take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, when changing lanes and when entering or leaving car parks.
Seatbelts, phones and speed
Compared to some countries, Australia has very strict rules around things like seatbelt wearing or use of handheld devices while driving. These are in place to keep road-users as safe as possible, and it’s really important that you follow them.
It’s a legal requirement for all people travelling in a car (both driver and passengers) to be properly restrained by a seatbelt. This also goes for infants travelling in boosters or car seats. If any passengers in your vehicle are incorrectly restrained or not wearing a seatbelt, you as the driver will receive a fine and possibly lose demerit points from your license.
Mobile phones or other handheld devices are never to be used while driving, even if you’re stopped at traffic lights. Fully licensed drivers may be permitted to use certain hands-free, mounted or inbuilt functions for calls, audio or navigation, but the exact rules vary. Learner and provisional drivers generally face much stricter device restrictions; in several jurisdictions, they cannot use a phone at all while driving, including through Bluetooth, hands-free mode or for navigation. The safest approach is to set up your route before leaving and keep your phone out of reach.
Speed limits vary from state to state, but things to be considerate of are school zones (usually 40km/h and in place during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times), slowing down when you see flashing lights (such as on a police car, ambulance or fire truck) and keeping an eye on any signs that signify a change of speed due to specific conditions. Speeding and device offences can result in substantial fines, demerit points and loss of licence.
Driving under the influence
A fully licensed, non-restricted driver must not exceed a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.05%. Learner and provisional licence holders must have 0.00% BAC. Random breath and roadside drug testing are common across Australia. Driving while affected by alcohol or drugs can result in fines, loss of licence, vehicle sanctions or criminal charges.
Driving in rural or remote areas
If you’re keen on exploring some of the lesser-trodden areas of Australia, make sure you remember the following:
- Watch for wildlife, particularly around dawn and dusk. Reduce your speed and, if an animal appears, brake firmly while maintaining control rather than swerving into another lane or off the road.
- Drive to the conditions. Rural roads may be narrow, unsealed, damaged or affected by dust, flooding and livestock.
- Check weather forecasts, road closures and fuel availability before leaving. Never drive through floodwater or past a road-closed sign.
- Carry sufficient drinking water, food, fuel and basic emergency supplies. Mobile phone reception may be limited or unavailable.
- Plan regular rest breaks and avoid driving while tired. Long distances, heat and monotonous roads can make fatigue particularly dangerous.
- Tell someone where you are going, the route you intend to take and when you expect to arrive.
For more information about driving in a particular state, visit one of the websites below:
- NSW: Transport for NSW
- VIC: VicRoads
- QLD: Department of Transport & Main Roads
- WA: WA Department of Transport
- SA: Department for Infrastructure and Transport
- TAS: Transport Tasmania
- ACT: Access Canberra
- NT: Department of Logistics and Infrastructure
Road rules and penalties can change. Check the relevant government website before driving, particularly if you are travelling interstate or using an overseas licence.
