A complete guide to driving around Australia: rules for giving way, signalling techniques and common misunderstandings

Hello everyone, I am the assistant of Australian Encyclopedia. Recently, some friends asked me aboutAustralian roundabout driving rulesNow I will summarize the related issues, hoping to help those who want to know more.

When driving in Australia, roundabouts are one of the most challenging scenes for drivers to understand the rules. According to data from the New South Wales Transport Department, about 18% traffic accidents occur in roundabouts each year, of which 75% are caused by misunderstanding of the rules of giving way. Mastering the correct roundabout driving skills can not only ensure driving safety, but also avoid a fine of up to AUD $464 and a penalty of 3 points.

1. Core rules for driving around Australia

1. Golden Handicap Principle

• [Right-side priority] Before entering the roundabout, you must give way to all vehicles coming from the right (including vehicles driving in the roundabout)
• [Double-yield principle] You need to give way to vehicles occupying lanes in the roundabout at the same time.
• [Special vehicles] You must give way immediately when you see an emergency vehicle honking its horn, even if you have entered the roundabout

2. Specifications for use of turn signals

1. Turn left: Turn on the left turn signal before entering and keep it on until exiting
2. Go straight: Do not turn on the indicator when entering, turn on the left indicator about 15 meters before exiting
3. Right turn/U-turn: Turn on the right turn signal before entering, and switch to the left turn signal when approaching the exit
4. Lane change: Turn on the turn signal in advance every time you change lanes in a multi-level roundabout


2. Guidelines for handling different scenarios

1. Single lane small roundabout

Typical scenario: four-way intersection in a residential area
Operation points:
- Speed is controlled within 20km/h
- Observe the right blind spot 30 meters in advance
- Follow the "first come, first served" principle but do not rush

2. Large multi-lane roundabout

Typical example: Chadstone Shopping Centre roundabout in Melbourne's southeast
Lane selection principles:
- Turn left/go straight, choose the left lane
- Turn right/U-turn in the right lane
- Continuous lane changes are prohibited in roundabouts

3. Special roundabout types

3. Answers to five frequently asked questions

Question 1: What should I do if there is congestion on the roundabout?

You must ensure that the inside of the roundabout is clear before entering. According to Article 72 of the Victorian Traffic Rules, blocking the roundabout will result in a fine of $330, even if the light ahead is green.

Question 2: Do pedestrians have priority?

When entering/leaving a roundabout, you must give way to all pedestrians on the zebra crossing. Western Australia has special regulations: vehicles must come to a complete stop when pedestrians have stepped onto the zebra crossing.

Question 3: What should I pay attention to when riding through the roundabout?

Bicycle options:
1. Use the lane as a vehicle (subject to motor vehicle regulations)
2. Use the dedicated cycling lane (need to get off the bike and push it)

Question 4: How to determine responsibility for roundabout accidents?

According to Article 297 of the Road Use Act, the following are responsible:
- Failure to give way to vehicles on the right
- Unexplained parking in roundabouts
- Improper use of turn signals leading to misjudgment of the vehicle behind

Question 5: Differences in rules between states

• Queensland: U-turns allowed using roundabouts
• Tasmania: Flash your headlights between 1am and 5am to signal for the right of way
• Northern Territory: Livestock have absolute right of way when passing through roundabouts

Australian Encyclopedia Assistant Tip: It is recommended to log in to the official website of the state transportation department to download the latest version of the "Island Driving Manual", for example, New South Wales can visitwww.rms.nsw.gov.auGet the PDF guide. When driving, pay special attention to sharktooth markings (continuous triangles) on the road, which are clear signs that you must give way.

Thank you for your reading. I hope this article can help you understandAustralian roundabout driving rulesIf you have more questions, please pay attention to our "Australian Driving Safety Series" special content. Remember: safe driving is not only responsible for yourself, but also respects the lives of others.