Australia Traffic and Driving Rules
You may already be aware that we drive on the left in Australia. Additionally, for first-time visitors from other nations, such as the United States, continental Europe, and the rest of the world, where you drive on the right-hand side, driving on the left can be a little strange.
Following the flow of traffic can help you get used to driving on the left side of the road in cities and other populated areas, but in the Outback and other rural areas, you’ll need to pay a little more attention because it’s simple to drive on the wrong side of the road if you’re not used to driving on the left. Therefore, drive cautiously, slowly, and perhaps only during the day.
On all Australian roads, drive on the left at all times. I’ve taken many road journeys by myself, and getting used to driving on the left was simple. Driving an automatic vehicle is preferable, and I wholeheartedly urge anyone up for a self-driving adventure to do so. With fewer distractions, you’ll be able to focus on the traffic flow and become acclimated to the left-side gear.
Maintain your position in the slow lane, which is the leftmost lane on the road, and pass on the right. In Australia’s rural locations, passing lanes are provided for brief 1.5 km lengths to assist you in allowing fast drivers to pass.
At roundabouts, you should also yield to the right. You must be cautious of poor road conditions and roadworks in various areas of regional Australia. At intersections with Ts and crosswalks, it might not be very evident.
Australia has a lot of roundabouts; drive through them counterclockwise. Roundabouts should be entered from the left (counterclockwise), giving way to the right. Australians, on the other hand, dislike to slow down and frequently travel quickly past roundabouts. So be cautious when you approach roundabouts. Numerous roundabouts can be found within short driving distances; some of them are true monsters with several exits and built-in smaller roundabouts.
In Australia, the majority of the states have 100-110 km (62-68 mph) speed restrictions. The maximum speed in Northern Territory is 130 km (80 mph). There are speed limit cameras and police inspections everywhere, even on sparsely traveled Outback routes where you wouldn’t anticipate seeing either. In cities, the typical speed restriction is 60–50 km/h (31–37 mph).
Avoid drinking and driving in Australia since the 0.05 bac blood alcohol level is the same as in Europe. So be careful because driving under the influence carries severe penalties and fines in Australia.