Caravan Laws In Australia You Need To Know
Caravanning is a fun and exciting way to travel across the country but it’s important that you’re aware of the laws surrounding this mode of travel. These Australian laws are important to ensuring your trip is safe for both you and others.
Register your caravan
Like any other vehicle on Australian roads, you need to register your caravan so a link can be established between yourself and your caravan. This is especially important so you do not get a hefty fine should you get pulled over
Make sure your caravan is roadworthy
It is illegal to tow a caravan that is deemed unroadworthy. Perform regular checks on your caravan to ensure:
- Coupling and safety chains are in good condition
- Brakes and external lights are working
- Wheels, bearings, tyres and suspension are in good condition, especially if you haven’t used the caravan for a while
- Tyres are of the same construction on all wheels and have a tread depth of 1.6mm or more
If you’re unsure about any of these things, it may be wise to seek assistance from a mechanic.
No one can travel inside the caravan
Though it may seem idealistic to maybe have a nap in the caravan whilst someone tows you along, this is illegal. All passengers in a travelling vehicle must be sitting with seatbelts on.
Should you be in an accident your safety is compromised if you are standing or not strapped in.
Nothing can be towed behind the caravan
For obvious reasons, this is another illegal activity. There are too many chances that something could go wrong with towing two things behind your car. Not only will there be likely weight issues it would be a major safety issue on the road, with obstructed vision and control issues.
Your caravan cannot exceed weight limits – be sure to check online if your van meets requirements.
Just because you can tow it does not mean you should. When towing make sure your caravan meets the requirements of:
- The maximum weight recommended by the caravan manufacturer
- The towing limits recommended by the car’s manufacturer, or
- The weight rating of the towbar
The caravan cannot be towed by a learner or P1 probationary driver
Though a road trip could be seen to be a perfect opportunity to get a learner’s hours up, if you’re towing a caravan they cannot set foot behind the wheel. A learner or p1 driver is just too inexperienced to be dealing with the additional hinderances of a caravan when beginning to drive.
Educate yourself as much as possible on road and caravan rules and regulations before you set on your next trip. This is especially important if travelling between states as the laws can vary slightly.
The last thing anyone wants while on holiday is to cop a fine for something they weren’t aware of. These laws are in place to ensure the safety of you and others on the roads.