Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is one of 75 countries that drive on the left-hand side of the road, accounting for about a sixth of the world's land area, a quarter of its roads, and about a third of its population. This means that the steering wheels in vehicles are on the right-hand side, so the driver is closer to the centre of the road. Other countries that drive on the left include New Zealand, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom, which spread this practice through the British Empire, influencing many former colonies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Driving side | Left |
| Steering wheel position | Right |
| Driver's position | Centre of the road |
| Overtaking | On the right |
| Roundabouts | Clockwise |
| Right turns | Not allowed at some intersections |
| Seatbelts | Compulsory |
| Mobile phone usage | Illegal |
| Blood alcohol limit | 0.05 |
| Fuel type | Unleaded petrol |
| Gas stations | Known as "petrol stations" or "servos" |
| Tolls | Paid electronically |
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What You'll Learn
Australia's left-hand traffic laws
Australia is one of 75 countries that drive on the left-hand side of the road. This practice dates back to medieval times when travellers preferred to keep left to have their right hand, typically the dominant one, free for defence. The British government formally regulated left-side driving in the 18th century, and as Australia was a part of the British Empire, it adopted the same practice.
In Australia, this means that the steering wheels in vehicles are on the right-hand side, so the driver is closer to the centre of the road. If you are used to driving on the right, everything will be basically mirrored. When turning right at an intersection, you will need to cross the intersection, and often wait for the right-hand arrow to turn green. There are also intersections where right-hand turns are not allowed at all. If there is a stop sign instead of a traffic light, you will need to give way to any cars on your right before moving through, as well as any cars whose path you will be crossing.
When approaching a roundabout, you will need to give way to any traffic coming from your right before entering, and you will exit on the left. When coming up to a pedestrian crossing, check on your left, then right, to account for which curb you are closest to. If you are a pedestrian, make sure to look right, then left, before crossing.
Left-hand drive vehicles are legal in Australia in some circumstances, depending on the state and the age of the car. Most states allow you to register a left-hand drive vehicle, but it often has to be considered 'historic'. For example, in New South Wales, a vehicle is considered historic at 25 years, and can be registered either conditionally or for a greater cost with standard registration.
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Adapting to driving on the left
Australia is one of 75 countries that drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is a practice that dates back to medieval times in the UK and was spread through the British Empire, influencing many former colonies.
If you are visiting Australia and planning to drive, it is important to be aware of the differences and take time to adapt to driving on the left. Here are some key tips to help you adjust:
Stay Left, Passenger to the Kerb
The most important thing to remember is to stay on the left side of the road. A simple heuristic like "passenger to the kerb" can help you keep this in mind. Constantly remind yourself to stay left, especially when pulling out from side streets, which is where it often goes wrong.
Adjusting to Roundabouts
Roundabouts (traffic circles) in Australia operate in a clockwise direction. You enter and exit on the left, but remember to give way to any traffic coming from your right before entering.
Turning at Intersections
When turning right at an intersection, you will need to cross the intersection. Often, you will need to wait for the right-hand arrow to turn green. There are also intersections where right turns are not allowed at all. If the intersection has stop signs instead of traffic lights, give way to any cars on your right before moving through.
Pedestrian Crossings
When approaching a pedestrian crossing, check your left first, then right, to account for which curb you are closest to.
Indicators and Windscreen Wipers
The indicators and windscreen wipers may be on the opposite side of the steering wheel than you're used to, so be mindful of this when signalling or turning on the wipers.
Manual Cars
If you are driving a manual car, you will need to change gears with your left hand instead of your right.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Australia uses the metric system, so all measurements and speed limits are in kilometres.
- It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic.
- Aussies rarely use their car horn, except in emergencies.
- Most cars in Australia run on unleaded petrol, but many 4WDs, motorhomes, and some campervans use diesel.
- Remember to drive on the left when pulling out of petrol stations, as this can be a common mistake.
- In cities, you may see T2 or T3 lanes, which are transit lanes requiring a minimum of two or three people in the car, including the driver.
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Rules of the road in Australia
Australia drives on the left side of two-way roads. This is a practice that dates back to medieval times in the UK and was spread through the British Empire, influencing many former colonies.
- Seatbelts are compulsory for all drivers and passengers in the car.
- Children under seven must be in a child restraint appropriate for their size and weight. There are also special rules about children's car seats and baby capsules.
- Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. If you are riding a motorbike, scooter, moped, e-bike, or bicycle, you must wear a helmet.
- No mobile phones. It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone when driving, even if you are stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic. If you are using your phone for navigation, it must be in a hands-free cradle.
- Blood alcohol limit. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. Police conduct random breath and drug tests on roadsides, and it is a criminal offence to drive under the influence.
- Speed limits are strictly enforced. Speed limits are in kilometres, not miles. The speed limit is the maximum speed permitted on that road, and you must not drive above it at any time. Some roads do not have visible speed limit signs, but speed limits still apply. You should be especially careful in residential areas and school zones.
- No turning on red. Unlike in the US, you will get charged if you turn on a red light.
- Parking. Always park on the left-hand side of the road. It is illegal to park facing oncoming traffic. Check for parking signs, as the rules are strictly enforced, and you may be fined for overstaying the allowed time.
- Railway crossings. You must stop before you cross, even if the gates are up.
- Pedestrians have right of way. Always use pedestrian crossings where possible and remember to look right, then left, then right again when crossing the street.
- Road conditions. Roads can vary from sealed road surfaces to gravel and unsealed roads. If you are travelling on unsealed roads, a four-wheel drive (4WD) is recommended. Be aware of hazards, including holes, soft road edges, and changing road surfaces.
- Wildlife. Watch out for wildlife on the road, such as kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas.
- Fuel. Most cars on the road in Australia run on unleaded petrol, but many 4WDs, motorhomes, and some campervans may use diesel. Fuel is easy to find, but if you are planning to drive in a remote area, it is wise to carry a spare container of fuel.
- Rest breaks. It is common to travel long distances in Australia, so plan your journey to include several rest breaks and ensure you have enough petrol. Rest areas are located every 80-100 kilometres on main highways and roads.
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Australia's roundabouts and intersections
Australia is a country that drives on the left side of the road, a practice that is shared with the UK and several other former British colonies. This custom dates back to medieval times when travellers preferred to keep the left side of the road free, leaving their right hand, typically the dominant one, free for defence against potential threats.
Roundabouts can be intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with them. Australia, in particular, is known for its roundabouts, with Canberra boasting 406 roundabouts. When approaching a roundabout, it is important to give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout, including bikes, as well as any trams or light rail vehicles entering or approaching the roundabout. This often means giving way to vehicles approaching from the right. However, it is also important to be mindful of vehicles that may have entered the roundabout from the left, as you will need to give way to avoid a collision.
Multi-lane roundabouts usually have direction arrows painted on the road surface, indicating the direction of traffic flow. When exiting a roundabout, it is courteous and common sense to signal left when leaving if it is practical to do so. However, this is not always necessary, especially on small, single-lane roundabouts. On larger, busier roundabouts, indicating your intentions can help improve traffic flow.
At intersections, it is important to be mindful of trams and buses, which are given priority at some crossings. Additionally, in some cases, pedestrians may be given extended crossing time, which can affect the length of the green light. When turning at intersections, especially at night, it is crucial to remain vigilant and follow the traffic flow.
Driving in a new country can be challenging, but with concentration and familiarity with the local rules and customs, it is possible to navigate Australia's roundabouts and intersections safely.
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Australian road signs and signals
Australia's road sign designs are based on a variation of the American Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). However, there are some differences, such as the use of red "give way" signs instead of yellow "yield" signs, and "no entry" instead of "do not enter". Australia also adopted some road signage designs from the United Kingdom, including the use of the imperial system of units (miles and yards) instead of the customary system used in the US (miles and feet).
Australian road signs can be categorised into five main types: regulatory, warning, guide, safety, and information signs. Regulatory signs, usually in black and white or black and yellow, tell drivers what they can and cannot do. Warning signs, typically yellow diamond-shaped signs with black words or symbols, alert drivers to potential hazards ahead. Guide signs provide directional information, while safety signs, such as "workers ahead" or "roadworks ahead", warn drivers of potential dangers and instruct them to proceed with caution. Information signs give drivers information about distances to towns or cities and upcoming lane closures.
Some specific examples of Australian road signs and signals include:
- "Close Lane(s) Ahead": Informs drivers that one or more lanes are closed due to construction or maintenance.
- "Temporary Traffic Signals Ahead": Alerts drivers to the presence of temporary traffic signals, often used during road works or emergencies.
- "Roadwork Ahead": Indicates that roadwork is taking place, and drivers should expect changes in traffic patterns, reduced speed limits, and potential delays.
- "Trucks Crossing or Entering": Warns drivers of potential slow-moving or large vehicles ahead, requiring extra caution and a safe following distance.
- "Speed Limit Ahead": Used in Western Australia to indicate the upcoming speed limit, ranging from 10 km/h to 100 km/h.
- "No Entry" and "No U-turn": Prohibitory signs that restrict certain manoeuvres, with local variations in applicability.
- "T2 Transit Lane" and "T3 Transit Lane": Indicates that the transit lane is restricted to vehicles with at least 2 or 3 occupants, respectively, during specified hours.
- "Height Restriction": Requires vehicles exceeding the indicated height to find an alternate route due to upcoming tunnel or underpass clearance issues.
- "Road Hump" and "Dip": Warns drivers of sudden changes in road elevation.
- "Animal Crossing": Indicates the potential presence of animals, such as kangaroos or koalas, crossing the road.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Australia is a left-hand drive country. This means that the steering wheels in vehicles are on the right-hand side, so the driver is closer to the centre of the road.
Australians drive on the left side of two-way roads. This is also the case in other countries that used to be British colonies, such as New Zealand, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when driving in Australia:
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.05, and police conduct random breath and drug tests on roadsides across the country.
- It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic.
- Most cars in Australia run on unleaded petrol, but many 4WDs, motorhomes, and some campervans use diesel.
- Aussies rarely use their car horn, except in emergencies.
