Planning to drive in Australia for the first time? If you're from a country where driving happens on the right, adjusting to Australia's left-side driving might feel daunting. But with the right preparation, it can be a smooth experience.

Understanding Left-Side Driving in Australia

Australia follows left-hand traffic laws, meaning drivers must keep left on roads and overtake on the right. For international visitors unfamiliar with this setup, this can be a significant adjustment — especially during turns, roundabouts, and multi-lane driving.

Whether you're renting a car for a road trip or using a peer-to-peer car rental platform like Accura Cars to either rent out your vehicle or hire one, understanding local driving norms is crucial.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Vehicle Setup

• The steering wheel is on the right side of the car.
• The gear shift, turn signals, and wipers are also reversed.
• Rent an automatic car to avoid added stress if you're new to manual shifting.

2. Start Slow and Practice

If possible, spend some time driving in a quiet area before heading into city traffic. This allows your brain to adjust to:

• Turning left into the left lane
• Navigating roundabouts clockwise
• Keeping left even on wide roads

3. Use GPS and Pay Attention to Road Signs

Australia has well-marked roads, but it's best to use a GPS or mobile navigation app to stay focused. Look out for signs about:

• Speed limits (in km/h)
• Give way rules
• School zones and wildlife crossings

4. Be Extra Cautious at Intersections

Many mistakes happen during:

• Right turns (crossing traffic)
• Left turns (forgetting to stay left)
• U-turns at traffic lights (often not allowed)

Make deliberate and slow moves until you’re confident.

5. Know the Road Rules

Some important local laws:

• Mobile phone use is illegal while driving (unless hands-free).
• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
• Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% — strict penalties apply for drink driving.
• Children under 7 must be in approved child restraints.

6. Driving on Highways and Rural Roads

Australia’s highways can be long and isolated:

• Keep headlights on during rural travel.
• Watch for kangaroos or wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk.
• Always have water, fuel, and emergency supplies.

7. Choose the Right Car Rental Option

Platforms like Accura Cars let you rent a car in Perth directly from locals or list your own car for rent to make passive income. For overseas visitors, this peer-to-peer rental approach is flexible, cost-effective, and gives access to a wider range of vehicles — from family SUVs to compact sedans.

8. Insurance Is a Must

Always opt for comprehensive car rental insurance. Make sure it covers:

• Overseas drivers
• Left-side driving unfamiliarity
• Damage, theft, and third-party liability

Accura Cars offers insurance support for both renters and owners, making it a reliable choice for first-timers.

Final Thoughts

Driving on the left in Australia doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of practice and caution, you’ll be enjoying scenic coastal routes, national parks, and vibrant city roads in no time. And with Accura Cars, you can conveniently rent a car in Perth or list your own vehicle to earn while you travel.