Melbourne CBD: Mastering the Hook Turn

Driving in Melbourne’s CBD? Get to Know the “Hook Turn”

If you’re new to Melbourne, you might do a double-take when you see cars turning left from the right-hand lane. Welcome to one of the city’s most famous quirks: the hook turn!

The hook turn is a unique traffic rule in Melbourne’s central business district (CBD), designed to keep trams moving smoothly while keeping intersections safe for everyone—drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Here’s how it works:

1️⃣ Turning right from the left lane
If you want to turn right in the CBD and there’s a tram lane, you start the turn from the left-hand lane, rather than the right. It may feel counterintuitive at first, but it’s crucial for keeping trams flowing.

2️⃣ Wait for the light
Once you’re in the middle of the intersection, wait for the traffic light to change. When the light turns green, you can complete your turn safely, giving trams priority on your left.

3️⃣ Safer for everyone
This system reduces congestion and makes intersections safer for pedestrians and cyclists, who often have their own designated space.

Tips for mastering the hook turn

• Look out for road signs marking “hook turn only” intersections.

• Always check for trams before entering the intersection.

• Take it slow—practice makes perfect!

Don’t let this quirky rule intimidate you. Once you understand it, driving through Melbourne’s CBD will feel much more manageable—and you’ll be driving like a local in no time!

At Relocate and Thrive, we help newcomers navigate not only the logistics of moving but also the little cultural and local quirks that make a city feel like home. From traffic rules in Melbourne to street culture in Manila, understanding your new city is key to thriving abroad.

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