Whether you’re a grey nomad hitting the open road or a young family ready for your next adventure, knowing the maximum speed that vehicles towing a caravan or trailer are allowed to travel is crucial for keeping your journey safe and ticket-free. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about towing speeds across our vast country.

A white SUV pulling a caravan trailer, pulled over to the side of the road during sunset.

Aussie Towing Speed Guide, State By State

Just like footy team preferences, each state and territory across Australia has their own caravan towing laws. Here’s what you need to know about the trailer towing speed limits by state:

Queensland

Drivers should follow the listed general speed limits for Queensland and pay attention to road and weather conditions
There’s a maximum speed of 100km or 110km/hour on most highways and between 50km to 80km/hour in many built-up areas
Always check local signage as some areas may have lower limits
Learner drivers can tow a caravan or trailer provided their L plate is placed visibly at the back of the caravan

New South Wales

The speed limit for caravan towing in New South Wales equates to the signed speed limit of the road you’re on
Limits do apply based on your tow vehicle’s gross vehicle mass (GVM), though – the GVM shouldn’t exceed 4,500 kilograms or 4.5 tonnes or your speed will need to be capped at 100km/hour, regardless of the posted speed limit
Learner drivers aren’t permitted to tow a van or trailer in NSW

Victoria

Drivers towing caravans in Victoria need to follow the general speed limits posted on road signs
Travel safely based on the road and weather conditions during your trip
Drivers can be booked for unreasonably obstructing drivers or pedestrians via driving too slowly unnecessarily, among other things
On most highways you’ll need to stick under100km/hour when towing
In this state, learner drivers are not allowed to tow a van or trailer

South Australia

South Australian drivers towing caravans should follow the listed general speed limits and travel at speeds that suit the prevailing road conditions
For vehicles with a GVM over 12 tonnes, the maximum speed limit is 100km/hour
Learner drivers in South Australia may tow a caravan but only as long as they don’t exceed a weight limit of 4,500 kilograms or 4.5 tonnes.

An overhead shot of a caravan being pulled by a white SUV, on red dirt roads in Australia.

Western Australia

No matter the weight/mass of your car and caravan or trailer, 100km/hour is the maximum speed limit you can drive on WA roads
Learner drives are allowed to tow vans and trailers in Western Australia as long as they’re accompanied by an experienced driver
There is no set caravan speed limit for learner drivers apart from the maximum speed limit in the state

Tasmania

In Tasmania, you can drive at the posted speed limit when towing a van or trailer
For unsealed (gravel) roads, though, the maximum speed you can do is 80km/hour
If you’re driving a vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes, the maximum speed limit you can drive at anywhere in Tasmania is 100km/hour
Learner drives are not permitted to tow a caravan or trailer in Tasmania

Northern Territory

Drivers towing caravans in the NT should adhere to listed speeds on road signs
Be on the lookout for potential special conditions during the wet season
Learner drivers in the NT may tow a van or trailer provided their L plate is properly displayed

Australian Capital Territory

Like many other states, ACT drivers towing caravans must follow posted speed limits
Adjust speed to applicable road conditions (e.g., slow down for snow)
ACT learner drivers are allowed to tow a caravan or trailer provided its GVM weight doesn’t go over 750 kilograms

When the Manufacturer Knows Best

Here’s another top tip to keep in mind: your vehicle and caravan manufacturers might have their own speed restrictions that are lower than state limits. They’re not just throwing a spanner in the works for fun, though. These limits are based on things like vehicle towing capacity, brake system capabilities, load conditions, and caravan aerodynamics.

Some manufacturers avoid setting limits that are different from state laws but offer guidelines on best performance, too. Always check out manufacturer information before you start towing a van. The guidelines may also provide relevant details about how to stop caravan sway, tips for suitable caravan dimensions for your vehicle weight, and understanding acceptable caravan tow weights.

A side image of a large caravan trailer being pulled by a white SUV along red dirt roads in Australia.

When Things Go Wrong: The Not-So-Fun Stuff

Reckon you can get away with pushing the towing speed limits? Think again! Here’s what you might cop for speeding while towing:

Hefty fines that’ll make your wallet lighter than an esky after Australia Day
Demerit points that could leave you walking instead of driving
Insurance problems if something goes wrong
In serious cases, legal action that could cause you some strife

Time to Drive – Responsibly

So, what is the maximum speed vehicles towing a caravan or trailer are allowed to travel? The general rule sits at around 100-110km/hour max across Australia, but you should always check both state regulations and manufacturer specifications before setting off. These speed limits exist to keep you, your family, and everyone else on the road safe.

Need help getting your van ready for your first or next big trip? Drop by our workshop or contact us today – we’re always up for a chat! You can also book a free onsite quote and we’ll come right to your door.

Whether you’re planning your first grey nomad adventure or getting the family ready for the school holidays, we’ve got your back. And remember: life’s better when you’re taking it easy, especially when you’re towing your home away from home!