Getting Around

Getting Around

Transport options available in Australia include buses, trains, trams and ferries, while you can also drive yourself. Your access to these transport services will vary depending on where you live.  You will also be able to access private and public car services from taxis to hired limousines, available to take you from door to door.

Public transport costs vary depending on where in Australia you live and the type of transport you are using. You should look at the relevant state or territory government website for where you are living to see the full range of services available, timetables, and the costs associated.

Click here for more information on transport concessions in each state and territory, along with links to the relevant websites.

Driving in Australia

In Australia, cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, and it is the law that seat belts must be worn by everyone in the car.

Drink-driving or driving under the influence of alcohol is against the law in Australia. If you do not obey drink-driving laws, you may lose your license and face heavy fines.

Similarly, you must obey speed limits whilst driving in Australia. If you are caught speeding, you may face losing your license and heavy fines.

Can you drive in Australia on your overseas licence?

International students are considered temporary residents in Australia, which means you are allowed to drive with your home country’s licence, however, many states and territories require you to apply for an Australian driver’s licence after a certain amount of time living there.

It is recommended that you check with your local transport authority to see if you are allowed to use your overseas licence or not.

Laws and driving regulations differ from state to state. Some states require you to carry an international license with your current foreign license. Other states request you carry your current foreign driver’s license together with a formal translation of this license into English.

You can only drive vehicles your overseas license authorises you to drive and must drive according to any conditions on your overseas license.

Transferring overseas licences

If you already have a valid overseas licence, you may not have to go through the process of gaining a driving licence in Australia.

If you’re from a recognised country or jurisdiction, you will be exempt from having to take a knowledge and driving test when applying for an Australian driver’s licence. This will make it easier to exchange your driver’s licence.

If your country isn’t on the list of recognised countries or jurisdictions, you’ll have to go through testing procedures. We recommend that you check with your local transport authority to see if your country is on the list or not.