Sydney - Getting Around - Road

Driving regulations are not uniform across Australia's states and territories, so visitors should be aware that the laws in Sydney might differ from states outside New South Wales. Driving in Australia is on the left and the speed limit outside built-up areas is generally 100kph (62mph) or 110kph (68mph) on freeways. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50kph (31mph) unless otherwise indicated. The legal driving age in New South Wales is 16 years. Overseas driving licences are acceptable, although an International Driving Permit is preferred. By law drivers must carry their licences while driving. Visitors who plan to drive in the more remote outback areas should contact one of Australia's motoring organisations beforehand, to obtain maps and advice on road and weather conditions,as these regions are subject to wet to extreme weather conditions. The Australian Automobile Association (tel: (02) 6247 7311; www.aaa.asn.au) provides further information. The National Roads and Motorists' Association (NMRA) (tel: 131 122, in Australia only; www.mynrma.com.au) also provides information and motoring services.

Emergency breakdown services
NRMA Emergency Breakdown (tel: 131 111).

Routes to the city
The main routes into Sydney are the Hume Highway (heading northeast from Melbourne), the Pacific Highway (south from Brisbane), the scenic Princes Highway (north from Melbourne via the coast) and the Sturt Highway (linking Adelaide on the west coast to Sydney on the east coast).

Driving times to the city
From Melbourne - 11 hours; Brisbane - 13 hours 30 minutes; Adelaide - 18 hours.

Coach services
Greyhound Australia (tel: 1300 473 946, in Australia only; www.greyhound.com.au) is the main operator and offers routes to over 1,100 destinations in Australia including Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Melbourne. Buses arrive at and depart from Sydney Coach Terminal, Eddy Avenue.