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Travel within Australia

Public Transport

Australian capital cities have good public transport facilities which include buses, trains, ferries and light rail systems. An understanding of the cities public transportation systems can not only save you time but can also save you money. For more information on the public transportation options see the Department of Transport and Regional Services website.

By land

Australia is a vast country roughly the same size as the continental U.S. and full of amazing sights. All cities except Hobart are linked by an extensive rail and bus network. Australia has a vast network of well maintained roads and highways with some of the most beautiful touring in the world. If you have time traveling by car or motorbike can sometimes be the best way to visit remote and rural places. International visitors to Australia are allowed to drive in most Australian States and Territories on a current overseas license for a maximum of three months after arriving in Australia. After this time a state issued license will be required. The recognition of licenses from certain countries was agreed upon in Australia and certain drivers are exempt from the practical car driving test if they hold a current, acceptable license from one of the recognized countries. The United States is one of the recognized countries.

Unlike the United States, the law in all Australian states is for motor vehicles to keep to the left of the center line. Pedestrians need to be aware when you are about to cross a road, you should look first for cars coming from the right. Then, after checking in both directions to make sure that it is safe, walk straight across the road.

New and second-hand vehicles are advertised for sale in newspapers and magazines and are also available from new car showrooms and dealerships. The purchase price of a car does not usually include the cost of registration, stamp duty (government tax) and compulsory insurance. These costs have to be paid separately by the buyer.

In Australia seatbelts are mandatory. This applies to the back seat too. In Australia the blood alcohol limit of 0.05 is strictly enforced and at any time you may be pulled over for a random breathalyzer test. Penalties for not adhering to Australian road rules are quite severe and can include substantial fines, loss of license and in some cases even jail time.

By air

There are three major airlines that operate within Australia; Qantas, Virgin Blue and Jetstar. Each offer discount airfare sales from time to time so it is best to monitor their websites.