Which side of the road do Australians drive on?
Australians drive on the left side of the road, and cars have the steering wheel on the right. This follows the British tradition, which Australia inherited during the colonial period.
Drivers overtake on the right and give way to the right at uncontrolled intersections. At roundabouts, traffic travels clockwise and drivers give way to vehicles already on the roundabout.
Visitors from countries that drive on the right should take extra care, especially when turning at intersections and leaving car parks. Many rental car companies place reminder stickers on windscreens.
Road rules to know
Speed limits are shown in kilometres per hour. In cities, limits are often 50 or 60 km/h, and on rural highways usually 100 or 110 km/h. Speed cameras and random breath testing are common, and penalties can be strict.
Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers, and using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal. In remote areas, drivers should watch out for kangaroos, livestock and road trains, which are long trucks pulling several trailers.
International visitors can usually drive with a valid overseas licence for a limited time, sometimes with an International Driving Permit.