West Gate Freeway in MelbourneCity.

Transport in Australia

Most of Australia's infrastructure is dictated by it's geographical boundaries. Because of the distance between major regional centers and the urban sprawl, transportation is always an important factor. Heavy haulage, climatic conditions and environmental requirements & obligations are some of the criteria that contribute to ongoing requirements.

Road Transportation

Road transport is an essential element of the Australian transport network, and Australia relies heavily on road transport due to Australia's large area and low population density in remote areas. Australia is reliannt upon roads because the rail network has not been sufficiently developed for a lot of the freight and passenger requirements. Goods that would otherwise be transported by rail are moved across Australia via road trains.

Almost every household owns at least one car, and uses it most days.

Funding and responsibility for Australia's road network is split between the three levels of government; Federal, State and Local. Various highways and main roads linking regional centres are funded by the respective state governments. Local and minor roads are generally funded by the third tier of government, local councils.

The Federal government provides funds under the AusLink programme for several funding programs including:

  • National Projects
  • National Network Maintenance, essentially the National Highway, comprising the main freeways and highways linking the major cities of Australia
  • Roads to Recovery Programme - provides funding allocations to councils in each State or Territory.
  • Black Spot Programme (improvements to high accident risk spots)
  • Strategic Regional Programme
  • Funding for Local Roads

 

Melbourne Trams
Melbourne has the largest urban tramway network in the world ahead of St Petersburg.
Road Train
Transporting a large dumper truck in the Western Australian Goldfields




Australian Rules Football
Australian Rules Football

If you're looking for a new and exciting sport to watch, look no further than Australian Rules Football!

A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse
A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse

Built in 1879, Tacking Point Lighthouse has been a beacon for sailors and coastal explorers.

Surfing in Australia
Surfing in Australia

Surfing captured the imagination of locals and quickly built up a cult of devotees and proceeded to capture the imagination of sporting Australians.

How to BBQ a Steak
How to BBQ a Steak

Australians are famous for their BBQ's. Enjoying the beautiful climate, standing over the BBQ waiting for the feed. Australian meat eaters are also pretty fussy about how their steak is done.

LGBTQIA+ Pride Across Australia
LGBTQIA+ Pride Across Australia

Explore Australia’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ pride festivals, from Perth’s PrideFEST to Sydney’s iconic Mardi Gras. Discover inclusive events, regional celebrations, and the spirit of community that makes Australia a proud and welcoming destination.

Game, Set, Explore: Tennis in Australia
Game, Set, Explore: Tennis in Australia

Explore Australia's vibrant tennis culture, from local clubs to the Australian Open. Discover the community, competition, and spirit of tennis across the nation.

Beginner's Guide to Australian Rules Football
Beginner's Guide to Australian Rules Football

If you're looking for a sport that combines the best aspects of soccer, rugby, and American football, look no further than Australian Rules Football!

Understanding Rips Along the Coast
Understanding Rips Along the Coast

Don’t let a hidden danger ruin your beach day. Be informed, stay safe, and enjoy our stunning coastline!

Woolamai Beach, Phillip Island
Phillip Island Surf

From ultra-blue waves to bright turquoise tides, Woolamai Beach on Phillip Island is the dream destination for beachgoers and surfers alike.

NT Indigenous Artists
NT Indigenous Artists

Indigenous art is a big part of the Northern Territory life. No matter where you roam you'll find it in it's natural habitat or on display in art galleries.



TOP