In Australia, one may incur a fine for parking your car with the back end facing the street. According to the Road Rules of Australia regulation 208, to leave a parked car unattended on the road, the driver has to leave the car facing the direction of the traffic flow in the adjacent lane, or the direction in which the traffic is legally allowed to move even in the absence of lane markings. parking this way reduces the chances of accidents, especially head-on collisions, and does not block traffic on the road.
| State/Region | Typical Fine for Wrong Direction Parking | Additional Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Up to $136 | Possible demerit points |
| South Australia | Around $79 + $105 Victims of Crime Levy | Fine issued by RAA |
| Other States | Approx. $130+ | Varies by local councils |
Reasons For Safety Rules about the Direction of Parking
Parking facing the wrong way is considered to be a dangerous maneuver. Some reflective markings from the parked vehicle may not be visible to the oncoming traffic. Rear guards are usually a big problem at night and this can create a dangerous environment where offending the vehicle is against traffic rules. Vehicles parked facing the direction of the traffic flow can even block the line of sight and create a very dangerous situation where the parked vehicle is very visible and provokes road users to make unsafe decisions.
Parking Fines
Parking the car with the rear facing the pavement car is viewed as a disproportionate danger. Each of the states in Australia does have rules about parking fines, with the minimum being hard set to $130. There are extra considerations that can push the fine even higher, such as parking in a school zone. To illustrate, in New South Wales, you could receive a parking fine about $136 for parking in the opposite direction, and in other places, the fine could be even greater and come with demerit points. Those fines are given out by police or authorized council rangers who enforce parking regulations.
Exceptions and One-Way Streets
Generally, with one-way streets, both sides of the street will be available for parking, unless otherwise indicated with a sign. Because the street only goes one way, a vehicle may be parked with the driver’s side next to a curb. This is perfectly legal, as long as the car is pointed in the direction they are allowed to be driving. Even in this situation, there are still parking guidelines and laws that have to be followed, such as not blocking other cars, leaving enough room, and not blocking any other traffic.[4][2]
FAQs
1. Is it always illegal to park a car facing the opposite way in Australia?
In Australia, it is illegal, unless it is a one way street where it is legal to park on either side, as long as the vehicle is. pointed in the direction of the traffic.
2. What Are the Fines for Parking Facing the Wrong Direction?
Fines begin at approximately $130. But it can go higher because of certain conditions or locations.
3. Who is Responsible for the Parking Direction?
The police and the council rangers with certain powers can also enforce these rules.
