Are there speed limits in Australia?

With rare exceptions, speed limits apply everywhere in Australia. These speed limits are measured in kilometres per hour (km/h) and are enforced through use of mobile police units, speed cameras, and highway patrol, especially over peak holiday and travel seasons like Christmas and Easter.

Range of speed limits in Australia

Depending where you are in Australia and the type of road you’re driving on, the speed limit could range anywhere from 10 km/h to 130 km/h, the former typically applying to inner-city thoroughfares and housing complexes, and the latter to freeways and motorways.

While most states implement a 50 km/h built-up and 100 km/h open-road default, keep note as some states and towns have exceptions. It is important to check and follow the local signs especially in high-pedestrian areas, CBDs, and share-zones as signposted limits always override the default. Speed limit ranges in Australia are as follows:

School zones

Take heed of school zones when driving in residential areas. The speed limit in active school zones is 40 km/h, overriding the default speed limit of the area it encompasses. School zones are marked by signage and are generally time-based, with the default speed limit applying outside of school hours, although some school zones are permanent with a 40 km/h speed limit at all times. Make sure to check laws per state and locality as for South Australia, a 25 km/h speed limit when a child is present is implemented in school zones. Refer to the table below for school zone limits per state.

Speeding penalties

The penalty for speeding can vary depending on the state you were driving in and the degree to which you were speeding. If you are pulled over by police for speeding, you’ll be issued an on-the-spot fine and demerit points against your licence.

If you’re caught speeding by a speed camera or mobile unit, you’ll generally be mailed a penalty notice, including the fine you are required to pay. If, however, you’re driving a rental car at the time, the penalty notice will be sent directly to the rental provider and forwarded to you for payment. The rental provider will also add an administration fees to your car rental invoice for any traffic fines that are sent to them.