An Overview of Australian Road Rules for Driving with KINTO

While the rules follow a national framework, each state enforces their own traffic laws, and minor differences can catch drivers off guard.

This guide includes common road rules, key differences between states and tips to help KINTO drivers travel with confidence.

This guide is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Road rules vary by state and may change. Drivers must check the relevant state or territory transport authority before driving.

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General road rules and traffic laws in every Australian state

While Australian road rules for driving are managed at a state level, many road rules follow the same national framework. Understanding these general rules can help drivers stay safe and compliant while on the roads.

Common road rules include but are not limited to:

• Follow posted speed limits (urban: typically 50 km/h , school zones: typically 40 km/h, highways: typically 100 km/h).
• Mobile phone use while driving is illegal unless the device is mounted and operated hands-free by a full licensed driver.
• Seatbelts are mandatory.
• Under 0.05 BAC drink-driving limit.
• Giving way to pedestrians at crossings and intersections when turning.
• Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way.
• Indicating when turning or changing lanes.
• Headlights must be used at night or in poor visibility.

For more information on national road rules, visit the National Transport Commission website.

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State-by-state road rule differences

Traffic laws in Australia can vary slightly between states. Here are some key differences you should be aware of for your next visit to these states.

The following highlights are indicative only and may not reflect all applicable laws.

Road Rules in Victoria (VIC)

• Drivers must stop behind trams at roadside tram stops for pedestrians to enter and exit the tram. Once the tram doors are closed and the road is clear, you may drive past the tram at 10km/h [1].
• Hook turns are required at some intersections in Victoria, particularly in Melbourne’s CBD.
• Victoria uses cameras to target distracted drivers using handheld devices and note seatbelt detection [2].
• U-turns are permitted at traffic lights or intersections unless there is a sign prohibiting it [3].
• School zones operate at 40 km/h during set times.

Road Rules in New South Wales (NSW)

• School zones generally operate at 40 km/h during set times, but some operate at 30 km/h [4].
• NSW has mobile phone detection cameras to target drivers illegally using portable devices statewide [5].
• Double demerit points issued during public holidays [6].
• Drivers must not move more than 3m away from their vehicle when the engine is switched on [7].

Road Rules in Queensland (QLD)

• The following speed limits apply in school zones [8]:

40km/h on roads where the normal speed limit is 50/60/70km/h

60km/h on roads where the normal speed limit is 80km/h or above.

• Queensland uses cameras to target drivers using handheld devices or those without seatbelts [9].
• Double demerit points year-round for repeatedly committing specific offences [10].

Road Rules in South Australia (SA)

• Drivers must slow to 25 km/h when a child is present in a school zone, no matter the day or time. Separate 40 km/h speed limits operate on school days during set times [11].
• Mobile phone detection cameras are installed at high-risk metropolitan areas across Adelaide [12].
• Drivers must slow to 25 km/h when passing stationary emergency vehicles (with flashing red/blue lights), breakdown vehicles (with flashing amber lights), and school buses (with flashing lights) [13].

Road Rules in Western Australia (WA)

• Mobile phone cameras operate statewide to detect illegal mobile phone use and drivers not wearing a seatbelt [14].
• Double demerit points issued during public holidays for certain offences [15].
• School zones operate at 40 km/h during set times [16].
• Crossing a continuous line is permitted in some circumstances[17].

Tip: Drivers should be aware of road trains, which can stretch up to 60m in length when driving in regional areas.

Road Rules in Tasmania (TAS)

• Mobile phone and seatbelt detection cameras are in place across Tasmania [18].
• School zones operate at 40 km/h during set times [19].
• When turning in a roundabout, you must indicate [20].
• Drivers must not exceed 20 km/h when turning at an intersection with traffic lights [21].

Tip: Wildlife hazards are especially common on rural and regional roads, particularly at night. Drivers should remain alert when driving in these areas.

Road Rules in ACT

• City areas operate at 40km/h [22].
• School zones operate at 40 km/h during set times [23].
• Mobile phone detection cameras are located in high-risk areas [24].
• Double demerit points issued during public holidays [25].

Road Rules in Northern Territory (NT)

• When exiting the roundabout, drivers must indicate even when going straight through [26].
• Some sections of highways have speed limits of up to 130 km/h [27].
• School zones operate at 40 km/h during set times [28].

Tip: There are long distances between towns in the Northern Territory. Take time to plan fuel and rest stops safely.

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What to be aware of when driving a KINTO Vehicle

KINTOs fleet includes modern features designed to make car sharing simple and convenient. Here’s what you should know before starting your trip:

• KINTO vehicles use push-button start systems rather than keys.
• Keyless entry and lock function is managed through the KINTO app on your smartphone.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely locked at the end of your trip to complete the booking correctly.
• Fuel is included in all KINTO bookings. Simply use the fuel card located in the car when refuelling.
• Planning an interstate roadtrip? KINTO is a back-to-base rental system, meaning the vehicle must be returned to its original location at the end of your booking.
• Unsure where to park your KINTO? Here’s what you need to know about the cost of parking in Australia.

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Road safety with KINTO

Safety while driving is central to KINTO’s approach to mobility. Our vehicles are regularly serviced and maintained to meet safety standards, and the fleet consists of newer models equipped with modern technology designed to support safer driving.

For instance, KINTO has been rolling out vehicles equipped with Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) to improve road safety. AVAS produces a low sound at slower speeds to help pedestrians detect cars and avoid collisions. The AVAS is especially important to people who rely on auditory cues, as Electric Vehicles and Hybrids operate quietly.

Learn more about KINTO’s commitment to safer streets.

Understanding Australian road rules helps ensure your trip is safe and free from unexpected infringements. While most traffic laws follow the national framework, there can be small variations between states. Before your trip, it’s worth checking local regulations and staying up to date on rules or road conditions.

Now you know what to look out for, you’re ready to hit the road. With the KINTO app, you can easily book and manage your trip in just a few taps on your smartphone. Book your next journey today and enjoy flexible car rental across Australia.

How do NSW road rules compare to other Australian states like VIC or SA this year?

NSW road rules are based on the same national framework as those of other Australian states, but there are some differences in the rules, how they are applied, and how they are enforced.

For example, NSW enforces strict road-safety rules with double demerit points during public holiday periods, compared to Vic and SA, which don’t enforce double demerit points. As traffic laws are managed at a state level, check the official laws before getting behind the wheel [29].

Where can I find official up-to-date road and traffic rules for Australia online?

You can find official Australian road rules for driving here:

• Australian Road Rules: National Transport Commission
• VIC Road Rules
• NSW Road Rules
• QLD Road Rules
• SA Road Rules
• WA Road Rules
• TAS Road Rules
• ACT Road Rules
• NT Road Rules

Are there new road rules drivers should be aware of?

New and updated road rules may be introduced periodically, as they vary between states. Drivers should check local transport authority websites for the most current information.