Driving In Australia - Your Questions Answered

Helpful Information You Should Know

The benefits of being a UK visitor driving in Australia during your Australia holiday is that they drive on the same side of the road on the left side. Making it that little bit easier when you begin your journey. We have put together some helpful tips to help make driving in Australia easier. 

Stay in the left lane unless you’re overtaking (always pass on the right); a broken white line in the middle of the road means you can overtake if it’s safe – if there are two lines you can only overtake when the one closest to you is broken. 

In Australia roundabouts operate the same as the UK in a clockwise direction and you should give way to the right same at intersections.

You may see a few road signs you are not familiar with, one you may see is T2 or T3 lanes. These are transit lanes and can only be driven in if you have 2 or 3 people in the car including the driver.

Roads in Australia are well sign posted, if you are following a map on your phone the signal can be a bit patchy on off the beaten track roads. We recommend pre-downloading maps on your phone or purchasing a GPS sat nav.

Many Aussies rarely use their car horn expect for emergencies. Most drivers will give you a small wave to say thanks if for example you let them into a gap in the traffic, its expected you would wave back to if they help you out.

Driving in Australia FAQs

Q) Can I use my UK drivers’ licence to drive in the Australia?

A) Yes, you can hire a car in Australia with a UK drivers for up to 3 months. If you don’t have a photo licence you will be required to show your passport as well.

 

Q) Do I need to wear a seatbelt?

A) Yes, it is compulsory for everyone to wear a seatbelt when driving in Australia.

 

Q) What is the speed limit in Australia?

A) Road signs in Australia will be displayed in km/h. You should always observe the speed displayed but generally in urban areas the limit is 50 kilometres per hour and some highways allow for 100 kilometres per hour to 110 kilometres per hour.

Don’t be tempted to speed, because highway police are very strict about enforcing speed limits – in some states even driving one or two kilometres over the limit is enough to get you charged, and hidden speed cameras are widely used. The fines are sent to your car hire company and if you don’t pay it could come off your credit card or security bond.

 

Q) Where can I park the car?

A) You should always park on the left side of the road and it’s illegal to park facing oncoming traffic. You should also be aware of parking signs for example – 2P, means you can park for two hours, 3P for three. The rules are also strictly enforced and if you overstay the allowed time you may be fined

 

Q) Are there toll roads in Australia?

A) Yes, many of the motorways in Australia’s capital cities are toll roads and need to be paid with an electronic tag or pass. There is no toll where you can pay cash each passenger is responsible for paying for the toll roads.  

You can hire these along with your car or campervan, or you can buy a visitor pass from the local state roads and traffic authority website before you hit the road. In most cases you can also pay online up to three days after you use the road. The website or a phone number will be displayed at the toll gates. 

 

Q) Is fuel expensive in Australia?

A) The price varies in each destinations, its generally cheaper in the cities compared to remote Outback regions. On average its around $1.65 per litre subject to change.

 

Q) What should I know about driving in the Outback?

A) We highly recommend planning your fuel stops as the road stretches can be long. It’s also recommended to carry water and a few essentials in case you break down. It is also strongly recommended not drive a dawn or dusk when kangaroos and other wildlife are most active.

 

Q) What are the rules on drinking and driving in Australia?

A) Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in Australia and carries severe penalties.The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Driving after using drugs that impair your ability is also strictly prohibited, with serious consequences if caught.

 

Q) Can I use my mobile phone when driving?

A) No, you cannot use your phone while driving this includes touching your phone while using maps.

 

Q) Will I see wildlife on the road?

A) Yes, it’s common to spot some of Australia’s favourite wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wombats and koalas. You should always be travelling at a safe speed so if an animal does cross in front of you, you can further reduce your speed. Do not attempt to swerve your car violently or you can roll off the road. It its also advises not to drive in high wildlife population areas at nighttime when visibility is low.

 

Q) What should I do if my vehicle breaks down?

A) If your vehicle breaks down, do not leave your vehicle, as it will provide you with shade and protection from weather conditions. Follow rental company instructions for roadside assistance.

 

Q) What is the emergency services number in Australia?

A) The number for emergency services in Australia is 000. They can connect you to police, ambulance and the fire brigade. You should only contact 000 in an emergency.