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Drive in Australia

Australia is a really big country, and being able to drive makes life easier. We'll help you build the skills and confidence to keep driving in your new home.
Contact us to join the waitlist

Driving in a new country can be challenging. There are new road rules, different driving conditions, and a unique driving culture. That’s why we created the International Student Driving Experience Program, supported by Study Melbourne Inclusion Program (SMIP).

Our program will teach you everything you need to know to drive safely and confidently. You’ll also get to practice driving on Australian roads using a Federation University car with an experienced driver.

Check your eligibility

To be eligible for the International Student Driving Experience Program, you must be a current international student living in Victoria and hold a valid international driver’s licence.

Contact us to join the waitlist
Did you know your overseas driver’s licence is only valid in Victoria for six months? After that, you’ll need to convert it to a Victorian licence.

About the International Student Driving Experience Program

You'll attend four sessions focused on driving in Australia. After completing the sessions, you'll get two (or more) free practice driving sessions. 
Session 1: Road rules, traffic signs and the Australian licence system
This session covers key topics for safe driving in Victoria, including licence requirements, alcohol and drug laws, mobile phone use, seat belts, speed zones, accidents, and when to call the police.
Session 2: Safe and responsible driving in Australia
This session covers safe driving techniques, how to handle emergencies or tricky road conditions, practical skills like using indicators, checking blind spots and merging, and the importance of speed limits, giving way, and keeping a safe distance.
Session 3: Cultural differences in driving and psychology of driving in Australia
This session explores how cultural differences can affect driving behaviour, the importance of adapting to local road etiquette, and psychological factors like stress, decision-making, focus and reaction times – all with practical strategies for staying calm and confident behind the wheel.
Session 4: Insurance, legal requirements, car maintenance and pedestrian safety
This session covers the essentials of driving in Victoria, including types of car insurance, legal requirements like registration, what to do after an accident, basic car maintenance, tips for driving long distances or in bad weather, and how to safely share the road with pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers.

Free supervised practice driving sessions

After completing all four sessions you'll get two (or more) free, supervised practice driving sessions to give you chance to practice what you've learnt.
 
We'll organise the car and if possible, match you with a supervisor who speaks your first language.

Do you have questions?

Email isdep.isa@federation.edu.au for more information about the program or get in touch with your International Student Advisor on your campus.