Driving in Australia can be challenging for newcomers, including those used to Indonesian traffic patterns. The challenge isn't about driving ability itself, but rather that Australia's traffic rules are more complex than Indonesia's.
In an interview with SBS Indonesian, Farida Simanjuntak, a driving instructor in Melbourne, shared guidance to help drivers understand the key points they need to watch for to stay safe on the roads.
One common mistake, Simanjuntak said, involves speeding. “Sometimes people aren’t used to it. When the road looks empty, they just accelerate without realising there’s a speed camera ahead,” Simanjuntak said. “Here, you’re expected to follow the posted speed limit—not your instinct.”
Simanjuntak also pointed out that many new drivers struggle with giving way at roundabouts. “Give way to the right. That’s something people often forget, and it can lead to accidents,” she said.
Most traffic signs in Australia are actually quite clear, Simanjuntak said, but when speed signs aren’t visible, drivers can follow a basic rule based on the number of lanes.
“One lane usually means 50 km/h, two lanes is 60, and three lanes is 70. That’s the standard guideline,” she explained.
Simanjuntak also said drivers should prioritise others on the road, especially pedestrians.
“Give way to pedestrians first, then cyclists, then buses. Anything involving public transport or the public—give them priority,” she said.
When asked about language support, she acknowledged that there is currently no official driver education available in Indonesian. However, interpreter services are available free of charge for those who need assistance during tests or lessons.
