Mobile phones in cars have many benefits. They help us make and receive urgent calls, provide us with instant access to emergency services, and ensure security for people travelling alone.
Yet, as with anything involving moving vehicles, the driver's primary responsibility must always be the safe control of the vehicle. Mobile phones should therefore be used safely and within recognised guidelines to comply with the law, minimise risk and ensure safe driving.
Ultimately, the control of your car whilst driving is your responsibility.
If you decide you need to use your phone in a vehicle, we recommend that you use a hands-free car kit, and that you never use a hand-held phone whilst driving. Using a hand-held phone whilst driving is illegal in many areas in Australia and in some circumstances making or receiving any calls, even with a hands-free car kit, is illegal.
If you need to receive a call with a hands-free car kit, try to keep it to a minimum and warn the other person that you are driving and may need to break off conversation at any time.
Hands-free car kits should only be used when it is safe to do so. If you are in any doubt, you should find a safe place to pull over, stop and switch off your engine before using a mobile phone.
When using a hands-free car kit, please also bear in mind that:
We will continue to review Australian advice as required. If you have any questions on this, please see our frequently asked questions section and our Mobile Phones and Driving leaflet.