Many exchange students who arrive in Australia soon acquire a bicycle, either for riding or as a means of transportation. But what they should be aware of is that bicycles are not just an object of fun in Australia. The bicycle is in fact considered a means of transportation and therefore those who use it must follow traffic and safety rules.
In general, the bicycle must be equipped with a bell, lights on the front and back and reflectors on the pedals. In addition, cyclists of all ages and any passengers are required to wear helmets.
Each state in Australia has its own traffic laws, so it's up to the cyclist to find out about them according to the region in which they will be riding. In New South Wales, for example, cyclists must stop in front of a closed traffic light or stop sign, give way when indicated by traffic signs and make hand signals when changing direction.
Many sidewalks have signs stating that pedestrians and cyclists should share the sidewalk, keeping a distance of one meter from each other at all times. When there are no signs, cyclists should use the bike lane or the street itself. Children under 12 must ride under adult supervision.
Like motorists, cyclists are subject to traffic fines for high-risk driving. Here are some examples from NSW:
- Failure to wear a helmet: level 5 fine, $ 330
- Overtaking at a closed traffic light: level 6 fine, $ 439
- Dangerous driving: level 6 fine, $ 439
- Riding while holding a moving vehicle - level 5 fine, $ 330
- Failure to give way to children and pedestrians - level 6 fine, US $ 439
The use of bicycles as a means of transportation is encouraged throughout Australia. To help and teach cyclists, the city of Sydney, for example, offers courses that teach everything from how to get around to how to get around. behaving in traffic until caring for and repairing bicycles.
To find out more about traffic laws and regulations for cyclists, visit the official websites of each state: NSW, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania.
And for more information about Australia and exchange, contact us!
