Parking in Australia
Parking rules are set locally, so read the signs wherever you stop. A parking fine on a hire car goes to the rental company, which passes it on to you.
Parking rules in Australia are set by the local council where you park. Always check the signs and road markings.
You can park at the roadside in most places unless a sign says otherwise, except on major roads and motorways. Don't block things such as mailboxes, fire hydrants, traffic lights, and tram or bus stops.
Tips for parking in Australia
- Park within the bay lines, if there are any.
- Park facing the same direction as the traffic on your side of the road.
- Check for cyclists and let them pass before you open your door.
- Lock the doors and take all valuables with you.
- Before you drive off, check your mirrors, indicate and check your blind spots. Give way to all pedestrians and vehicles.
Rest areas on long drives
On long drives, plan regular breaks. Look for rest areas and Driver Reviver sites along your route, where you can stop, rest and refresh. Rules on stopping overnight vary from place to place, so check the signs before you stay longer than a short break.
Parking and road signs
Watch for these parking signs:
- No Stopping: don't stop your car unless traffic conditions make you stop.
- No Parking: read the whole sign, including any times and conditions, and check the road rules of the state you are in before you leave the car.
Green "P" signs show where you can park and for how long. For example:
- 1/2P: half an hour
- 1P: one hour
- 3P: three hours
- P: parking allowed
- Arrow: the rule applies in the direction of the arrow
- 7.30AM–6.30PM Mon–Fri: the times the rule applies
- Ticket: you must buy a parking ticket
- Permit zone: only permit holders can park
Parking fines
A parking fine is issued to the car, not the driver. In a hire car, the rental company receives the fine and contacts you. Fines can lead to charges after your hire. If you know you have received a fine, show it to the staff when you return the car and ask how to pay it.
Parking fines can be expensive, and councils can take further action for serious or repeated offences.
Next steps
- Toll roads and charges: how tolls are charged in a hire car
- Safety tips for car hire travel: rest stops and driving tips
Part of During Your Trip in the Car Hire Handbook.