Outback Driving
Good preparation and common sense are the keys to a successful journey in the Outback.
Routes vary from excellent sealed roads like the Stuart Highway to the roughest of bush tracks. The Birdsville, Strzelecki and Oodnadatta tracks are among the best four-wheel-drive journeys in the world and provide excellent access to the Northern Territory and Queensland, however they should always be taken seriously. Seasonal conditions change the terrain of the roads from smooth sandy tracks to corrugations, stony and rocky crossings.
Download brochure
Before you set out, download the handy 4x4 Driving and Repeater Towers brochure. It contains detailed information on Outback routes, four-wheel-driving safety, radio etiquette, notes from pastoralists and more.
- Get get advice on the terrain, conditions and safety requirements. Contact South Australia's Royal Automobile Association before leaving, and visitor information centres along the route.
- Take frequent rest breaks and change drivers regularly.
- Be aware of forward facilities and services (fuel, water, medical).
- Check with your motoring organisation for emergency services and facilities.
- You are sharing the road with everything from cyclists to road trains. Give room to the former and prepare for wind turbulence from the latter.
- Watch out for livestock and wildlife as they often stray onto the road. Avoid driving at sunrise and sunset when animals are most active.
- Check the conditions of Outback roads before leaving the nearest major town.
- Take care when travelling in remote areas during summer, temperatures in Outback Australia can reach over 40°C (104°F).
- Carry extra supplies of water and food and carry extra spare tyres and tools in remote areas.
- Hire appropriate emergency communication equipment, eg satellite phones, HF radio.
- Dust from dirt roads can obscure your vision. Slow down or stop until the dust settles.
- Obey road closure signs and stick to the main roads.
- If you encounter gates, they should always be left as they were found. Open gates should be left open and closed gates should be closed after passing through them.
- Avoid tracks that are for private use only, or that are not marked on maps.
- Leave details of your travel plans with a family member or friend
- In an emergency, stay with your vehicle.
Emergency Telephone Numbers
Call 000 for emergency fire, police and ambulance assistance throughout Australia or if a crime is in progress. From mobile phones it's 112. For non-emergency police attendance call 131 444.
