Safety Tips for Car Hire Travel
During Your Trip
It’s important to prioritize safety while driving in Australia and to be aware of local traffic laws.
Here are some of our safety tips to prepare you for your hire:
- Keep to the left-hand side of the road.
- Drivers must have an alcohol reading of less than 0.05 for experienced drivers. Provisional drivers and young drivers may not have any alcohol before driving.
- Utilize rest stops when needed. It’s recommended to stop every two hours to refresh during long distance driving. Most interstate freeways will have rest stops with parking and toilets available.
- Drive with Headlights on at night and in poor conditions like heavy rain. High beams are recommended for interstate driving but cannot be used within 200m of another vehicle.
- Everyone must wear a seat belt and all children 7 years old and under must be in an approved child restraint.
- Drive within the posted speed limits and to the conditions of the road. Maximum speed limit in Australia is 110km/h. Vehicles must not exceed this speed limit.
- Stop signs – under Australian law, failure to stop at a stop sign is an offence.
- At a roundabout all traffic must proceed in a clockwise direction. A vehicle already on a roundabout has right of way over any vehicles entering.
- Carry a valid driver’s licence in English or an International Drivers Permit alongside your national driver’s licence.
- Look out for animal hazards. Animal crossing signs are posted in high risk areas. Drive safely and be wary of wildlife on the road, particularly kangaroos in rural areas during dawn and dusk.
- It’s illegal to use an unmounted portable device while driving, only use hands free phone and navigation.
- Plan your petrol stops and bring plenty of water for long distance driving in remote areas. Petrol stations can be sparse in rural areas and emergency services may not be immediately available.
- Do not leave valuables in the car when unattended or keep valuables out of sight if possible.
Other Things to Consider
During Your Trip
- Australian Road Rules & Vehicle Requirements for Hire Cars
- Car Hire Safety Tips for Driving in Australia
- Driving with Wildlife on Australian Roads: Safety Guide
- Earning Reward Points on Car Hire Bookings
- Hire Car Breakdowns & Accidents: What to Do
- Hiring Electric Vehicles in Australia: What to Know
- On-Airport vs Off-Airport Car Hire: Pros & Cons
- Parking a Hire Car in Australia: Rules, Fees & Tips
- Petrol & Refuelling Policies for Car Hire in Australia
- Taking Hire Cars on Ferries in Australia
- Toll Roads in Australia: Charges & Hire Car E-Tags