It’s essential to know the Australian road rules before attempting to drive anywhere in the country to avoid making simple mistakes. A driving theory test is the first step to getting a driver’s licence, so let’s look at some of the basic road rules. It’s also necessary to understand the demerit points system and how it works. You will have to research this system as there are various ways to get these points, including fines, licence suspensions and loss of privileges.
Which Side of the Road
Many visitors to Australia have trouble understanding that we drive on the left-hand side of the road. An astounding two-thirds of the world uses the other side of the road, but we don’t judge. Although the change seems small, it impacts many different aspects of road use, like entering roundabouts, turning left or right, keeping left when travelling, and safely overtaking other road users.
Roundabout Basics
Before entering a roundabout, you’ll be confronted with one of two signs. The upside-down triangle tells you to yield to any traffic already in the roundabout, approaching from your right. A stop sign tells you that you must come to a complete stop before entering the roundabout, regardless of whether there is any traffic. These road rules apply across all states and territories in Australia.
In a multi-lane roundabout, keep to the left lane if you intend to turn left and use the right or inner lane if you’re turning right. You can choose either track to continue straight out of the roundabout. Signal your intentions to other road users with your indicators. These basic road rules help avoid confusion and crashes at intersections.
Speed Limits
The maximum highway speed limit in most Australian states is 110 km/h. You also need to follow other speed limits:
- 40 km/h in school zones,
- 50 km/h in a built-up area (sometimes 60 km/h),
- 100 km/h in rural areas.
Some jurisdictions may fine you for exceeding the speed limit by as little as 2 km/h. These road rules apply regardless of conditions, so always check signs and adjust your speed accordingly.
Emergency Vehicles
Any emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights has the right of way. You cannot move in front of emergency vehicles and have to move out of their way as soon as it’s safe to do so. This obligation overrides other road rules, meaning that you can even proceed through red traffic lights to avoid impeding an emergency vehicle. However, it must be safe for you to do so. It is also good practice to slow down when approaching emergency services vehicles stopped at the roadside.
Mobile Phones
Don’t use your mobile phone while driving. It’s illegal to use a mobile phone or any other device while driving if you’re a P1, P2, or learner driver. Fully licenced drivers may make voice calls if the phone is secured in a holder and they don’t need to touch the phone to use it. These rules apply across all licence levels to help improve safety and reduce driver distraction.
Other Important Rules and Considerations
Traffic lights include red, green and yellow traffic lights. A yellow light means prepare to stop if safe to do so. Many crashes occur from misjudging this rule, so it’s vital to be aware.
Parking signs are another key element of the road rules. Ignoring these can result in fines, penalties or even towing in some areas. Always check nearby parking signage before leaving your vehicle.
Some provisions apply specifically to buses, bicycles and pedestrians. For example, cyclists have equal rights and responsibilities, and drivers must provide adequate space when overtaking. In school zones, children may be crossing unexpectedly, so remain alert. You also need to be aware of seatbelt rules, wearing safety equipment, and markings such as stop lines and arrows at intersections.
Conclusion
While driving in Australia, you’ll be sharing the roads with heavy vehicles, horses, motorcycles, and bicycles. Remember that a heavy vehicle has limited visibility and needs more space to stop, accelerate or merge with traffic. Some areas have dedicated bike lanes, but cyclists have the same road rules and responsibilities as any other user. You need to give them space and watch out for them. Above all, show courtesy and respect to fellow road users and avoid taking unnecessary risks while driving.
