Driving Tips in Australia

Australia's comfortable and spacious roads make it an easy and safe country to drive in. Car rental in Australia allows you to explore the continent in depth and reach exotic, unique locations. However, it’s important to remember that driving conditions differ slightly from what you might be accustomed to.

Driving is on the left side of the road, and wild animals may cross your path, requiring your full attention. Here are some important tips for driving with a rented car in Australia:
 

◾Driving on the Left Side

In Australia, you drive on the left side of the road, and rental cars provided by Ofran’s Car Rental partners have the steering wheel on the right, as is common in the United Kingdom. This impacts traffic rules, such as driving clockwise in roundabouts and giving way to traffic from the right. Although driving in a country with opposite traffic flow might seem daunting, the experience in Australia can be smooth and enjoyable. We recommend choosing an automatic car to ease the transition.

◾International Driver’s License

Car rental companies in Australia require an international driver's license in English, presented alongside a valid Israeli driver’s license. You can find more information on our international driver's license information page for more car rental tips.

◾Choosing the Right car

Given that driving is on the left, with the driver’s seat on the right side, we recommend selecting a comfortable car type in advance. An automatic transmission can make adapting to the different driving style easier.
 

◾Toll Roads in Australia

Toll roads are common in Australia, particularly in Melbourne, where the CityLink network covers several roads. To travel freely on toll roads, you can purchase a CityLink Pass for daily, weekly, or longer-term use. The pass registers your license plate in the database and can be easily purchased on the CityLink website.

◾Special Road Signs

Australia's unique wildlife and road conditions add to the driving experience, but also require extra caution, especially on open roads. You’ll encounter unusual road signs, such as “Give way to kangaroos,” “Beware of wild animals,” and “Koalas ahead.” Before leaving the car rental station, it is recommended to study the signs.

◾Long-Distance Travel

Australia’s vastness means long trips are common, so it’s advisable to share driving duties. Australians are friendly and willing to help, but they take road safety seriously, with steep fines for traffic violations. Plan your road trip carefully, ensuring you have enough fuel, water, and supplies, especially in remote areas where gas stations are scarce.

Always stick to paved roads, as driving on unpaved roads with a rental car may void your insurance. If you are planning long trips, booking a spacious car rental will allow you maximum comfort during your travels
For more tips on car rental abroad, click here.

Booking a car rental in Australia with Ofran allows you to enjoy the freedom of independent travel, exploring all the sites and attractions that interest you at your own pace. Choose from a wide variety of car groups at affordable prices, ensuring a comfortable and convenient travel experience.


Ofran wishes you a safe and enjoyable trip with your car rental in Australia.
 

Great Barrier Reef

One of Australia’s most famous attractions, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef, comprising over 3,000 separate coral systems and dozens of tropical islands surrounded by vibrant marine life. You can access this wonder from several beaches, including Cairns, Townsville, and Mackay. Activities on the reef include snorkelling, diving, and sailing in a glass-bottom boat for those who prefer to stay dry. Be sure to leave some time to relax on the beach before you get back to the hotel with your rented car.

Pacific Route

Drive the Pacific Route Australia After booking a car rental, offers countless scenic driving routes, and one of the best is the 140-kilometer Pacific route. This smooth and easy drive starts just south of Sydney and continues south along the coastline to the Shoalhaven district. With the ocean on one side and wild mountain landscapes on the other, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Car rental in Sydney

Sydney, a stunning port city, is often the gateway to Australia, but its beauty and countless experiences make it hard to leave. Car rental in Sydney allows you to explore the city area and venture beyond its limits. Don’t miss top tourist sites like Darling Harbour, with its amazing views, restaurants, museums, and activities. Of course, the iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-see, known worldwide for its unique architecture and being one of the most photographed landmarks.
 

Car rental in Melbourne

Melbourne, the capital of Victoria and Australia’s second-largest city, is known for its architecture, museums, art, and nightlife. The city is also rich in nature, full of parks and gardens, earning it the nickname “the city of gardens.” Car rental in Melbourne allows you to explore the city area and travel towards Sydney or other parts of the continent without missing a thing.

Austalia with children

booking a car rental in Australia with Children allows you to enjoy the diverse cities and natural landscapes that offer something for everyone, from adventures for kids and teens to experiences for adults. The country’s nature and open spaces ensure a family trip full of memorable experiences. While car journeys may be long at times, the beaches and endless attractions of Australia are worth it.

Bondi Beach

Sydney’s Bondi Beach is one of the most beautiful and famous beaches in the world. Surfers, relaxed cafes, and various water sports create a vibrant atmosphere, complemented by golden sand and clear water. Children can spend the day playing on the sand or trying one of the many water activities. Many of the surfing schools at Bondi teach surfing to all ages, including young beginners.
 

Kangaroo Island

As Australia’s third-largest island, Kangaroo Island is a natural playground offering great local food, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife. You’re likely to see more kangaroos than cars here, along with sea lions napping on beaches and dolphins visible on guided tours. If you tire of the wildlife, you can visit lavender or honey farms. The island is about 100 km southwest of Adelaide.
 

Canberra with Children

Australia’s capital city is one of the most child-friendly destinations. With museums and galleries designed for children and nearby bushland, Canberra offers a mix of advanced cultural experiences and fascinating nature activities. Enjoy hot air balloon rides, bike trails, or a cruise on Lake Burley. Canberra is a hub of activities and fun for the whole family and an excellent starting point for rent a car for trips around the city.

 

Shopping in Australia

While Australia is renowned for its landscapes and wildlife, it also offers an impressive urban experience, including excellent shopping opportunities. Here are some of the top spots which you can reach easily with a rented car:

Queen Victoria Building, Sydney

A restored 19th-century architectural wonder on George Street, the Queen Victoria Building is a prestigious complex with over 180 fashion stores and restaurants, making it Australia’s premier shopping destination. The complex also includes a large parking lot, where you can park your rental car.

Emporium Melbourne

One of the most prestigious shopping locations in Australia, Emporium Melbourne houses over 220 stores, ranging from popular brands like H&M to luxury designers like Armani, alongside the largest selection of Australian designers.

Queen Street Mall, Brisbane

Located in Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Queen Street Mall features four large shopping complexes, offering everything from fashion and footwear to electronics and food, satisfying all your shopping needs in one trip.