Whether you’re fresh off the plane or just road tripping your way around Australia’s stunning countryside, hitting the road comes with big responsibility. And while we all want to get from A to B safely, road rules in Australia can be a little… confusing. Especially if you’re used to driving on the opposite side of the road or come from a country with different driving etiquette!
We don’t just connect great farms with great workers at Left Field, we actually care about your safety too. So let’s clear up five of the most misunderstood road rules in Australia (yes, even locals get these wrong sometimes!).
1. Roundabouts: More Than Just a Circle
Roundabouts aren’t a free-for-all. Here’s the breakdown:
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Turning left? Approach in the left lane and exit in the left lane. Signal left.
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Going straight? No need to signal entering, but do signal left as you exit.
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Turning right or doing a U-turn? Use the right lane, signal right as you enter, and then signal left as you exit.
Always give way to cars already in the roundabout, slow down, and stay in your lane. And if you’re changing lanes while inside the roundabout (yes, it’s allowed), make sure you signal and give way first.
2. Pedestrians Always Come First
This one’s simple but often ignored: Give way to pedestrians when turning, even if there’s no traffic light. Whether you’re turning left or right, always check for people crossing the road you’re about to turn into.
Pedestrians also have a part to play, check both ways and don’t assume every car will stop (even though they should).
3. Mobile Phones: Hands Off
Phones and driving? Big no.
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If it’s not in a mounted holder or completely hands-free, don’t touch it.
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Don’t rest it on your lap. Don’t wedge it between your shoulder and ear. Just don’t.
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No texting. No videos. No scrolling Spotify.
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You can use your phone’s GPS or audio, but only if it’s secured in a proper mount.
And heads up, most states have introduced smart enforcement cameras to catch illegal phone use, even if you think no one’s watching.
4. Merging: It’s Not a Race
If the number of lanes drops, the golden rule is zip merge: take turns and let each other in.
But, if your lane is ending and you need to move over, you must give way to the cars already in the lane you’re entering. Look for broken lane markings as your clue that your lane is about to vanish.
Be polite. Be patient. Merging is teamwork.
5. Keep Left (Unless Overtaking)
Cruising in the right lane when the speed limit is over 80km/h? Unless you’re overtaking or making a turn, you shouldn’t be there. It’s not just frustrating for other drivers, it’s illegal.
If you see a ‘Keep Left Unless Overtaking’ sign, it applies at any speed. Stick to the left and only use the right when needed. Not sure? Ask yourself: Am I overtaking someone right now? If not, move left.
Drive Like a Local, Think Like a Guest
Driving in a new place can be daunting, but road safety is something we all share. Understanding these five road rules is a great place to start.
We want all our workers, from local legends to international adventurers, to arrive safe and return home with good stories (not fines or fender benders). When in doubt, slow down, check the rules, and don’t be afraid to ask. It’s better to ask twice than get it wrong once.
