Road trips or self-drive holidays are a satisfying way to travel around Australia. Travel as you please, plan your own itinerary and explore as far as you want. Australia has a good network of well-maintained roads and highways and, for the more intrepid, quite a few dusty tracks to take you into the Outback.
Driving laws
Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is from 50 km/h (32mph) and 100 km/h (62mph) on country roads and highways unless signs indicate otherwise. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Strict drink-driving laws apply and it is compulsory for drivers and passengers to wear seat belts at all times.
Driving licenses
A bonafide tourist may drive in Australia on a valid driver's license for the same class of vehicle. Licenses must be carried when driving, in addition to a valid passport. If the driver's license is not in the English language, the visitor must carry a translation with the permit. An International driver's Permit is not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid driver's permit.
Motoring clubs
The Australian Automobile Association is affiliated with motoring organizations in most countries of the world. This entitles visitors to free roadside emergency breakdown service, travel guides, route maps, accommodation and camping directories and touring information. For information and assistance contact motoring associations in each Australian state.
Petrol (gas)
Petrol in Australia comes in leaded and unleaded grades and is sold by the litre. Petrol costs roughly between AUS $1.70 - AUS $1.90 per litre. LPG gas and diesel are also available. Petrol stations are plentiful; trading hours vary. Most will accept major international credit cards.
What do the experts say?
Tasmania is under the radar for many travelers, but it’s great for hikes, natural landscapes and now modern art!
Sydney and Melbourne are a great combination for first-time visitors to Australia, with Brisbane, Adelaide and/or the Outback added in, depending on how much time you have. Returnees should take in Perth, Darwin and the Kakadu National Park area and/or Tasmania if they can, plus spend some time in the cities they loved the first time around
It might sound cliche, but you really can visit year-round. Australia is a big country, so there is always somewhere with amazing weather!
Goway’s trips to Australia are not stock itineraries. We can put together trips of a few weeks or a few months, allowing you to see as much of the land Downunder as you can. And we offer a mix of travel options, from self drives to train journeys to long stay
Goway has partnerships with many unique inns and hotels in Australia. Among the most memorable are Qualia on Hamilton Island, Longitude 131 at Uluru and Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island.
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way