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DRIVING IN AUSTRALIA

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Telephone; 13 11 11, (24hrs Australia wide)

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

000 is the number for emergency services in Australia.  They can connect you to Police, Ambulance or the Fire Brigade.  You should only contact 000 in an emergency.

KEEP LEFT

Australians drive on the left side of two-way roads.  Ask passengers to remind you of this everytime you set off and when you are turning at an intersection.

LICENCE

It is compulsory to carry your licence when driving in Australia. If the licence is not written in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an English translation must also be carried with your licence.

SEAT BELTS

Is compulsory for all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts (where fitted). Children under the age 7 must be in a child restraint appropriate for the child’s size and weight.

OBEY ROAD SIGNS

You should familiarise yourself with the road signs in Australia and make sure you obey them.

BLOOD ALCOHOL & DRUGS

It is an offence to drive or be in charge of a vehicle if you have a Blood Alcohol Concentration is 0.05% or more. If you hold a probationary or provisional driver’s licence, your blood alcohol level must be 0.00% at all times. Driving after taking drugs that affect your ability to drive is illegal and penalties are severe.

MOBILE PHONES 

It is an offence for drivers to use mobile phones while the vehicle is moving and will attract a fine and, in some States, demerit points.

MOTORCYCLE AND BICYCLE SAFETY

If you are riding a motorcycle, motor scooter or bicycle, you are required to wear a helmet at all times.  If you are riding on the road, you must obey all road signs and traffic signals, including speed limits. Motorcyclists and their pillion passengers are required to wear helmets. The helmet must comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 1698. The standard label or sticker certifying compliance with the relevant standard must be clearly visible and must not be removed.