Australia is a vast country with a variety of landscapes, from the iconic beaches of the east coast to the rugged outback of the interior. If you’re planning a road trip during your visit to Australia, there are a few things you need to know about driving in this country.
In Australia, we drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a bit confusing for visitors who are used to driving on the right, so it’s important to be extra careful when you’re first getting behind the wheel in Australia. You’ll also need to be aware of the speed limits, which vary from state to state. In general, the speed limit is 110 km/h on freeways and highways, and 100 km/h on other roads.
Once you’ve got the basics of driving in Australia down, you can start planning your road trip. There are many different routes to choose from, so you can tailor your trip to your interests and time constraints.
Driving in Australia: Tourist Information
Important points to remember when driving in Australia as a tourist:
- Drive on the left.
- Obey speed limits.
By following these simple rules, you can help ensure that your road trip in Australia is safe and enjoyable.
Drive on the left.
One of the most important things to remember when driving in Australia is that we drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a bit confusing for visitors who are used to driving on the right, so it’s important to be extra careful when you’re first getting behind the wheel in Australia.
- Stay in the left lane.
When you’re driving in Australia, you should stay in the left lane unless you’re overtaking another vehicle. The right lane is for overtaking only.
- Give way to vehicles coming from the right.
At intersections, you must give way to vehicles coming from the right. This includes vehicles that are already in the intersection, as well as vehicles that are approaching the intersection from your right.
- Be aware of trams and buses.
Trams and buses have priority over other vehicles in Australia. You must give way to trams and buses when they are entering or leaving a tram stop or bus stop.
- Be careful when turning.
When you’re turning left, you must give way to oncoming traffic. When you’re turning right, you must give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
By following these simple rules, you can help ensure that your driving experience in Australia is safe and enjoyable.
Obey speed limits.
Speed limits in Australia vary from state to state, but the general rule is 110 km/h on freeways and highways, and 100 km/h on other roads. It’s important to obey the speed limits, as speeding can result in fines and demerit points on your license. In some cases, you may even be disqualified from driving.
- Be aware of the speed limit signs.
Speed limit signs are posted regularly along the roads in Australia. Make sure you’re aware of the speed limit for the road you’re driving on.
- Use your speedometer.
Your speedometer will tell you how fast you’re driving. Make sure you’re not exceeding the speed limit.
- Be aware of school zones.
School zones have a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h. You must slow down to 40 km/h when driving through a school zone.
- Be aware of road works.
Road works often have a reduced speed limit. You must slow down to the posted speed limit when driving through road works.
By obeying the speed limits, you can help ensure that you and other road users stay safe.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about driving in Australia as a tourist:
Question 1: What is the most important thing to remember when driving in Australia?
Answer 1: The most important thing to remember when driving in Australia is to drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Question 2: What are the speed limits in Australia?
Answer 2: The speed limits in Australia vary from state to state, but the general rule is 110 km/h on freeways and highways, and 100 km/h on other roads.
Question 3: What are the rules for giving way to other vehicles in Australia?
Answer 3: In Australia, you must give way to vehicles coming from the right at intersections. You must also give way to trams and buses when they are entering or leaving a tram stop or bus stop.
Question 4: What are the rules for turning in Australia?
Answer 4: When turning left, you must give way to oncoming traffic. When turning right, you must give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
Question 5: What are the penalties for speeding in Australia?
Answer 5: The penalties for speeding in Australia vary from state to state, but they can include fines, demerit points, and even disqualification from driving.
Question 6: What are the rules for using a mobile phone while driving in Australia?
Answer 6: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia. You can only use a mobile phone if it is in a cradle and you are not touching it.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about driving in Australia as a tourist. For more information, please visit the website of the Australian Automobile Association (AAA).
Once you’ve got the basics of driving in Australia down, you can start planning your road trip. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your driving experience in Australia:
Tip 1: Plan your route in advance.
Australia is a vast country, so it’s important to plan your route in advance. This will help you avoid getting lost and ensure that you have enough time to see all the sights you want to see.
Tip 2: Be prepared for long distances.
Distances between towns and cities in Australia can be long, so it’s important to be prepared for long drives. Make sure you have plenty of food, water, and entertainment to keep you occupied during your journey.
Tip 3: Take breaks.
It’s important to take breaks while you’re driving in Australia, especially if you’re driving long distances. Pull over at rest stops or roadside attractions to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
Tip 4: Be aware of the wildlife.
Australia is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and wombats. Be aware of the wildlife when you’re driving, and be prepared to stop if you see an animal on the road.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: By following these tips, you can help ensure that your driving experience in Australia is safe and enjoyable.
Driving in Australia can be a great way to see the country and experience its unique culture and landscapes. By following the tips in this article, you can help ensure that your driving experience is safe and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Driving in Australia can be a great way to see the country and experience its unique culture and landscapes. However, it’s important to be aware of the differences between driving in Australia and driving in other countries. By following the tips in this article, you can help ensure that your driving experience in Australia is safe and enjoyable.
Here are some of the main points to remember when driving in Australia:
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- Obey the speed limits.
- Give way to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Be aware of the wildlife.
- Plan your route in advance.
- Be prepared for long distances.
- Take breaks.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your driving experience in Australia is safe and enjoyable. So, pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the open road. Australia is waiting to be explored!