Australia driving guide · School zones
Australia School Zone Times by State
School-zone speed and hours change at state borders. Compare the standard rule, then follow the sign at the specific school.
Updated 2026-08-12
School-zone times by state and territory
| Jurisdiction | Typical limit | Typical operating rule |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | 40 km/h | 8:00-9:30 am and 2:30-4:00 pm on school days |
| Victoria | 40 km/h | Usually 8:00-9:30 am and 2:30-4:00 pm; some permanent zones |
| Queensland | 40 km/h | Usually 7:00-9:00 am and 2:00-4:00 pm; signed variations exist |
| Western Australia | 40 km/h | Usually 7:30-9:00 am and 2:30-4:00 pm |
| South Australia | 25 km/h | Whenever a child is present in the zone |
| Tasmania | 40 km/h | Usually 8:00-9:30 am and 2:30-4:00 pm |
| Australian Capital Territory | 40 km/h | 8:00 am-4:00 pm on gazetted school days |
| Northern Territory | 40 km/h | During the times displayed on the sign |
The sign always controls
The table is a travel-planning summary, not a substitute for the sign at a particular school. Flashing lights, electronic signs, split campuses and local gazetted hours can create exceptions. Slow before entering the signed zone and do not accelerate until the end sign.
School-day definitions can include pupil-free or staff-development days in some jurisdictions. Weekends, public holidays and school holidays are usually excluded where fixed hours apply, but only the local authority calendar settles the question.
Why visitors get caught
- South Australia uses 25 km/h when children are present rather than the common 40 km/h timed model.
- The ACT uses an all-day 8 am-4 pm school-day window.
- Queensland and Western Australia often start morning zones earlier than NSW and Victoria.
- School-zone fines and demerit points can be higher than ordinary speeding penalties.
- Cameras may enforce both the school-zone limit during active hours and the normal road limit outside them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the usual Australian school-zone speed?
40 km/h is most common, but South Australia uses 25 km/h when children are present and every jurisdiction can post a different signed limit.
Do school zones apply during school holidays?
Timed school zones generally apply only on official school days, but check the sign and the state calendar. Some permanent reduced-speed zones continue at all times.
Why is the ACT different?
ACT school zones generally operate from 8 am to 4 pm on every gazetted school day rather than split morning and afternoon periods.
Are fines higher in school zones?
Often yes. Many states apply higher fines, extra demerit points or both.
Related tools and guides
Official sources
Rules and penalties change. Confirm your situation with the issuing authority or a qualified professional before acting.