Driving in Australia
If you have a driver’s licence from another country, you might be able to use it in Australia. It depends on your visa type, how long you plan to stay in Australia, and which country your licence is from.
All Australian states and territories have similar rules about converting overseas licences. Generally, permanent residents and long-term visa holders are required to convert their overseas licence to an Australian licence within three months of arriving. Depending on where your overseas licence is from, you may need to complete a knowledge test or practical driving test.
Using public transport in Australia
Public transport is widely used in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra. It can be an affordable and environmentally friendly way to travel.
In Australia, public transport includes buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Each state or city has its own travel card and ticket system. Most services require you to have a pre-paid ticket.
- Sydney: Opal card
- Melbourne: Myki card
- Brisbane: go card
- Perth: SmartRider
- Adelaide: MetroCARD
- Canberra: MyWay+ card
You can buy these cards or top up the balance online, at stations, or in some shops such as newsagents. You use them to tap on when you enter a station or board a bus, and tap off when you leave. Some systems also allow you to tap on or off public transport using your debit or credit card.
Each state and territory has its own public transport website and mobile app. These can help you plan trips, check timetables, and get real-time updates. Apps like Google Maps and Moovit can also help you find the fastest routes.
Learn more about public transport in Australia at the Australian government Department of Home Affairs website
How to buy a car in Australia as a foreigner
Owning a car in Australia can give you flexibility to travel whenever and wherever you want. It can be helpful, especially if you are in an area with limited public transport.
To buy a car, you will need to prove your identity and address. You will need documents such as your driver’s licence (Australian or overseas), passport and visa.
You can buy a car from dealerships or private sellers. Dealerships can offer warranties and more security. But they are usually more expensive. There may also be less flexibility to negotiate. Private sellers don’t usually offer warranties or protections. But they may offer cheaper prices and there might be more room to negotiate.
After buying a car, you need to register it in your name. Each state and territory has its own process. Car dealerships will usually do the registration paperwork for you. You will need to do the paperwork yourself if you buy from a private seller.
Registration periods are usually six or 12 months.
You will also need to purchase car insurance. Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is required by law. This covers injury to other people if you have an accident. You can also get extra types of insurance to cover damage to your car or someone else’s property or if your car is stolen.
If you’re buying a used car, you may be able to find information about the car’s history – including any accidents or repairs – on the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR).
Staying safe on Australian roads
Australia has strict road rules to help keep everyone safe. Some of these rules are:
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road
- Wear a seatbelt
- Always carry your driving licence
- It is illegal to use your mobile phone while driving
- Obey speed limits. School zones will have lower speed limits during peak school hours
- Don’t drink alcohol and drive
States and territories will have different rules. For example, in some states, doing U-turns at intersections is illegal. It’s important to check the rules in your state.
There are penalties for breaking road rules in Australia. Penalties include fines and demerit points on your licence. A licence may be cancelled for serious offences. Some common offences are speeding, going through a red light, not wearing a seatbelt, or using your phone while driving.
Keeping within the time limits on street parking signs is also important to avoid being fined.
Top tips for travel in Australia
- Use online maps or apps to plan your journey before you leave home
- If you’re driving, give yourself extra time during peak hours (7am – 9am and 4pm – 6.30pm)
- If possible, travel on public transport during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
- If possible, offer your seat to people with disabilities, pregnant women, or elderly people on public transport
To sum up
There are many options for transport in Australia. Whether you choose to drive, use public transport, or a mix of both, it’s important to understand how to get around. Learning the local road rules and knowing how public transport works in your city can help you feel confident and safe.