Australia Transport & Getting Around

Transport & Getting Around

Australia has a number of International airports located in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, Darwin, the Gold Coast and Christmas Island. There are four domestic airlines in Australia, Qantas, Virgin Blue, Jetstar and Tiger Airways, that link capital cities, major destinations and some regional towns.

Australia’s road system is well maintained and highways linking most capital cities are of good quality. It is only isolated areas that have poorly maintained dirt roads or tracks. Australia drives on the left and car, motorbike and camper-van hire is widely available in major cities throughout the country. In some parts of Australia you will need a 4WD vehicle to get around.

Overseas driving licenses issued in English are valid for visitors for three months and an international drivers permit (IDP) is not required. However if it is not in English then an international drivers permit is required for all visitors who drive a vehicle. When traveling long distances ensure you have sufficient fuel, spare tyres, food and water as Australia is a large country and distances between towns can be extremely vast. Mobile phone coverage does not extend to remote areas of the country.

Australia’s rail network is relatively slow and primarily used for freight, however popular journey’s include routes across the Nullarbor Plain and 'the Ghan' from Adelaide to Darwin. Long distance travel across the country is generally cheaper and faster by plane.

Although hitchhiking is legal (except in Queensland and Victoria) it is often frowned upon by locals and the police.

Cycling long distances between cities is uncommon and may take several weeks however cycling around most major cities is easy with many bike paths available.

Australia’s bus network is a cheap and reliable way to see the country. Buses are well maintained and equipped with modern facilities.

Seatbelts are mandatory throughout the country and speed limits and drink driving are heavily enforced. When driving in rural areas be aware of free roaming animals as there have been numerous reports of fatalities occurring due to hitting animals venturing onto the roads. Always use common-sense when driving in outback Australia.

Motorbike helmets are compulsory for riders and pillion passengers, and it's also mandatory to wear a pushbike helmet when riding a pushbike.