Road signs in Australia, whether on roads or highways, are recognizable because of their distinct shape, size, and font. Australia is the Commonwealth realm, meaning they are signed up to the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals. The convention was set up in 1962 and is recognized by the UN. The convention doesn’t specify the exact appearance, font size, or color, but Australia uses the convention to conform with road signs around the world.
Driving in Australia shouldn’t give you much cause to worry, yet knowing the road signals in Australia before you drive is a smart move. While Australian signs use globally accepted idioms, such as signs for caution and mileage, there are a few road signs in Australia specifically you need to know.
Road Signs and the Basic Rules of the Road
To avoid danger while behind the wheel of a car, you must memorize the rules of the road before you drive.
When an active driver, it’s necessary to develop an awareness of and admiration for road rules. These rules are embodied in the form of road signs, traffic rules, and behavioral indications when at roundabouts, intersections, and crowded urban areas.
Regulatory Signs
Traffic signs are the most frequent road signs you may encounter, and they are used to ensure the safety of both road and traffic users. You must always follow your sign if you reach your destination or you may be subject to a fine.
They are generally written in color schemes consisting of red, black, yellow, white, and green; an excellent rule of thumb is that if you receive a fine for not following the road signs order, it probably is a regulatory sign.
The most common regulatory road signs you will come across include:
Give Way Signs
Signs are used to indicate to give way at intersections, roundabouts, and crosswalks to stop foot traffic, drivers, and even animals.
Stop Signs
Drivers are told to come to a complete stop or come to a complete stop at the intersection and stop when it is doable. Drivers must completely stop at an intersection and check for oncoming traffic or pedestrians before continuing.
Parking Signs
Signs indicating parking state whether a car is able to stop, how long, the data required to activate a ticket, and whether it’s a no-stopping or loading zone, or a clearway. Parking signs contain more depth than other signs.
Guide and Information Signs
Traffic signs possess a green, white and black color, and are for rendering helpful prompts, such as warnings of what is coming up to drivers. Informative and sign indicators share many features with parking signs, as they might display much more text than traditional traffic signs.
Warning Signs
Characteristic diamond-shaped warning signs are easy to identify and use. Their fluorescent background and black symbols or text make them especially distinctive.
Road signs that are red, such as preparing yourself to stop signs, or green colors, such as a warning for pedestrians or children, may indicate that it’s a pedestrian or youngster-oriented zone.
The warning lights use symbols and diagrams to tell you of approaching hazards. For example, a red cross means there is a street ahead, or a black T indicates the route ahead is ending.
Hazard Marker Signs
Signs are used to mark the distance of a vehicle before hitting an obstacle in the road. Their distinctive zigzag patterns make them easily distinguishable.
Road Work Signs
Sign systems must be followed with care, even when one has familiarity with the route.
When you see a Roadwork Ahead sign, reduce your speed to decrease your chance of getting a ticket and find other signs that can help you, as well as prevent potential dangers.
In summary, Australia’s signs are fairly good, but there are a few minor details that could be changed, such as using a larger font or adding an arrow or “Stop” symbol in yellow. The signs guide visitors around Australia by providing important distances, directions, and directions. It is evident that the signs in Australia are a positive improvement on the previous system.
