Australia is proud of its well-structured road network, yet some of its traffic rules remain largely unknown or routinely ignored by drivers. While most motorists understand the essentials — speed limits, seatbelt requirements, and drink-driving laws — lesser-known regulations are often breached every day without a second thought. In 2025, with road safety remaining a national priority, authorities are shining a spotlight on these overlooked rules that could save lives and prevent costly fines.
Keeping Left Unless Overtaking
One of the most overlooked rules is the simple instruction: “keep left unless overtaking.” On major highways across New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, slower vehicles must stay in the left lanes, leaving the right for overtaking and higher-speed traffic. Despite clear signs, many drivers fail to comply, creating congestion and sometimes dangerous situations. Police reminders and occasional fines do little to curb the habit, but transport experts insist that respecting this rule is crucial for reducing highway frustration and improving traffic flow.
Indicating Properly at Roundabouts
Another widely misunderstood rule concerns roundabout navigation. In theory, every driver should signal both when entering and exiting a roundabout. In practice, many Australians neglect to indicate when leaving, leaving following drivers guessing. The result is near misses and unnecessary confusion. State road agencies continually stress the importance of correct signalling, warning that small lapses in habit can add up to serious risks.
Minimum Speed and Lane Discipline
While speed limits get most of the attention, minimum speeds are just as important. Highways are designed for vehicles to maintain a safe flow, and driving significantly below the limit — especially in right-hand lanes — can be hazardous. Rules against “driving too slowly” exist in several states, yet penalties are seldom enforced. The lack of awareness means seniors, tourists, and cautious drivers might unknowingly disrupt traffic, sparking overtaking hazards.
Headlights and Fog Lights Misuse
Another hidden rule that drivers often forget involves headlights and fog lights. Motorists must switch on headlights when visibility drops below 100 metres, not only during nighttime but also in heavy rain or fog. Overuse of fog lights, however, is illegal and can dazzle other drivers. Experts in road safety note that many Australians misuse lighting by either not turning it on soon enough or leaving bright beams engaged unnecessarily.
Mobile Phone Mounting and GPS Use
The rules around mobile phone use remain strict in 2025, with even hands-free operation requiring compliance. Phones must be securely mounted in an approved holder and used only for navigation, music, or calls. Many drivers still balance their devices on lap or dashboards, not realising the risk of heavy fines. Authorities highlight that the law isn’t there to inconvenience, but to ensure drivers keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
Why These Rules Matter
Though many of these regulations appear secondary or minor, experts argue that habitual neglect undermines the collective safety of Australia’s roads. Each overlooked rule — from a forgotten indicator to an ignored lane regulation — contributes to road frustration, traffic build-up, and potential collisions. As road fatalities continue to be a concern, transport departments are urging Australians to refresh their driving knowledge, reminding motorists that the rules are not optional, but essential.
Australia’s highways may stretch for thousands of kilometres across cities, coasts, and outback regions, but road safety ultimately relies on small, consistent habits. In 2025, as authorities crack down on hidden infractions, the message to drivers is simple: pay attention to the details, because the little rules often make the biggest difference.
