The Most Common Australian Road Signs and What Do They Mean

Are you planning a road trip? Or perhaps you’re a new driver looking to take driving lessons? Either way, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of the road signs you’ll encounter along the way. Australia reported around 1187 deaths from road accidents in 2022, and one of the top 10 reasons for it is ignoring road signs.

Thus, it is essential to be aware of the different types of road signs and their meanings to ensure your and your passengers’ safety. Don’t get anxious if they are new to you; here’s a beginner’s guide detailing the most common Australian road signs and how you should respond when you face any of them.

Most Important Australian Road Sign

Australia has national guidelines for road signs, which are the same regardless of state. However, states and local governments can use fewer common signs for unique traffic conditions. Here are some of the most common road signs in Australia:

1. Regulatory Signs

Regulatory signs are used to control traffic, and you must obey them. They are usually black or red with a white background. Some common examples of regulatory signs include:

• Give Way

This sign indicates that you should slow down and you should prepare to stop, as you may need to give way to other vehicles or pedestrians.

• Stop (Compulsory)

This sign means that you must come to a complete stop before proceeding.

• Speed Limit

This sign indicates the maximum speed limit on the road, and you must not exceed it.

• No Left Turn

This sign prohibits you from turning left at the intersection.

• Keep Left

This sign reminds you to drive to the left side of the road.

• Keep Right

This sign reminds you to drive to the right side of the road.

• No Entry

This sign indicates that you are not allowed to enter a particular road or area.

• Transit Lane

This sign indicates a lane that is reserved for vehicles with three or more occupants during specific times.

2. Warning Signs

Warning signs are used to warn drivers of possible dangers coming ahead. They are usually yellow with black diagrams and might indicate the presence of people, animals, or an inconspicuous change in the road ahead. It can be classified into two types: permanent and temporary.

Permanent Warning Signs

These signs are yellow and black and are placed at the initiation of an area of certain caution. Some common examples of permanent warning signs include:

• Unexpected or Hidden Dip

This sign warns you of a sudden dip or depression in the road.

• Winding Road

This sign indicates that the road ahead has a series of curves or turns.

• Steep Downhill Slope

This sign warns you of a steep downhill slope, and you should take care of your brakes.

• T-Intersection

This sign warns you of an approaching intersection, and you should be prepared to slow down or stop and give way.

Temporary Warning Signs

These signs are usually yellow and black, but they can sometimes be orange and black as well. These are temporary signs that describe a change in the road layout, road condition, or hazard that is not usually present. Some common examples of temporary warning signs include:

• Road Works

This sign indicates road works ahead, and you should be prepared to slow down and follow any traffic control directions.

• Lane Closure

This sign warns you that one lane is closed ahead, and you should merge into the open lane.

• Incidents Ahead

This sign warns you of an incident ahead, such as an accident or an object blocking the road.

3. Information Signs

Information signs provide drivers with information for their journey, such as distances or directions to the upcoming town, state highway numbers, etc. They are commonly rectangular and can be seen in various colours and sizes. Some common examples of information signs include:

• Bridge Height

This sign specifies the height available under a bridge, and you should ensure that your vehicle will fit under it before passing through it.

• Dual Carriageway

This sign indicates that the road ahead will be converted to a dual carriageway with multiple lanes in both directions.

• Vehicle-Mounted Signs

These signs are found on oversized vehicles such as road trains and vehicles carrying heavy loads. They may also travel along with pilot vehicles to warn other drivers to be careful. These signs can be recognised by their bright yellow colour and black text. If you see one of these signs or a pilot vehicle when you are driving, you should slow down until it’s safe to resume an average speed.

Australian Animal Signs

In Australia, when driving on open roads, you may encounter many unfamiliar road signs, and among them are animal road signs. With Australia’s vast and diverse landscape, it’s not uncommon to see wildlife while driving, which is why these signs are vital.

These signs aim to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle accidents, thereby reducing injuries and fatalities and minimising vehicle damage. They are usually yellow with black letters and symbols, similar to warning signs, indicating which animal you should be aware of.

Here is a list of animals whose road signs you will see while driving in Australia:

• Brumbies

• Cattle

• Camels

• Deer

• Emus

• Kangaroos

• Koalas

• Wombats

Special Road Signs

These signs vary from state to state. Here are some examples of special road signs by different states that you need to know:

• Victoria

You will encounter a “hook turn” sign approaching an intersection in Victoria. This sign means that you are not allowed to make a right turn directly from the right lane. Instead, you have to move to the left lane and wait for the green light before making a right turn.

• Queensland

When driving through an intersection in Queensland, watch for the “Through Traffic Keep Left” sign. This specific road sign mandates that drivers stay in their left lanes when passing through intersections, even if they originally intended to go straight or make a right-hand turn. Compliance with this rule helps to keep the traffic running smoothly and safely.

Conclusion

Drivers must comprehend all types of road signs to maintain safety and responsibility. Whether you’re a new driver fresh out of driving school or an expert who gives driving lessons to others, being familiar with the road signs in your surrounding areas is a must. Studying the guidelines and regulations on road signs can help clear up doubts, and if needed, you can also seek guidance from qualified instructors/experts.

If you want to learn to drive and want the best driving instructors to teach you about all the necessary road signs, join the Onroad driving school today. Our Sydney driving school has expert instructors and an extensive range of courses. We can support you throughout your entire driving experience, so make use of the convenience offered by our 24/7 accessible online booking platform for easy scheduling of lessons and reach out to us if you need any help — we are always happy to assist.

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