Tips for Driving In Australia

Driving on the Left
Australians drive on the left side and drivers should use the left lane of any given highway unless overtaking. Three cities operate trams, Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne of which the latter is by far the largest. In general Trams always have right of way. In Melbourne's centre "hook turns" are used on many intersections where drivers turning right sit in the left lane across the junction indicating right until the traffic lights change and then turn right.

Speed Limits
In most States the maximum speed limit on freeways and major highways is 100kph and local urban limits range from 50 - 80 kph. In the Northern Territory there are highways that are free of any limits. All speed limits are clearly marked and all States operate sophisticated speed detection equipment including mobile and static speed cameras along with Red light cameras. Any fine incurred in Australia is the responsibility of the driver and should they be a foreign national the fine will be mailed to their home country address.

Safety Belts and Child Restraints
Wearing a seat belt in Australia has been compulsory since 1962. This applies to both front and rear seated vehicle occupants. Drivers please note that you as well as any passenger are liable should that passenger not wear a belt. Child restraints must be used where passengers are too small to make use of regular seat belts. All our suppliers retain a number of Child capsules/booster seaters that are available for a modest fee.

Drink Driving
All Australian states enforce strict drink drinking laws and the Police are entitled to stop drivers on a random basis for breathalyser tests. These operations are often referred to as "Booze Buses". In most states the legal limit is 0.05, however in encouraging responsible driving abstinence is recommended.

Outback Road Conditions
Australia has an extreme of climates especially in the north. Minor roads that are passable in the Dry season (March-November) can disappear beneath a torrent of water during the "Wet". Seek local advice should your travels take you off the main highways. Some things to look out for in country areas include potholes and rough surfaces, soft road edges and road surfaces changing without notice.

Driving at Night
When driving at night particularly in the Outback care should be taken to lookout for wildlife that may stray onto the road. Animals are attracted by car lights. Collisions with animals such as the Red Kangaroo can cause substantial damage to your vehicle.

Driving Licence
International visitors may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's licence that covers the same vehicle class. Whilst driving ensure that you carry your licence with you and if it is not in English carry a translation.

Fuel
Petrol is sold in litres and comes in both unleaded and lead substitute forms. Prices will vary depending upon location and in the major cities you will see price fluctuations during any given week and national holidays.

On the Beach
With 34,000 kilometres of coastline it is little surprise that beaches are an integral part of Australian life. All popular beaches have areas marked with yellow and red flags that are patrolled by members of the Australian Surf Life saving club. It is recommended that you always swim between these flags to ensure your safety. Should you choose to swim elsewhere avoid doing so on your own as strong rips and tides exist around many of Australia's beaches.

In the North during the Wet Season (November - April) dangerous jellyfish are common in coastal sea waters and swimming should not be undertaken except in pools or areas designated safe by members of the Surf Life saving club. These jellyfish do not interfere with activities on the Barrier Reef as it is located away from the coast beyond the jellyfish habitat.

Australia Distance Chart