Shared Zones in Queensland
What is a shared zone?
A shared zone is a specially signed road or area where pedestrians have priority over vehicles. These areas are commonly found in shopping precincts, car parks, tourist areas, apartment complexes, and places where there is a lot of pedestrian activity.
The shared zone begins at the Shared Zone sign and ends at the End Shared Zone sign. The speed limit shown on the sign applies throughout the zone.
There are A LOT of shared zones around the Redcliffe shopping area.
What are the rules when driving in a shared zone?
When driving in a Queensland shared zone, you must:
- Drive at or below the speed shown on the shared zone sign. In Redcliffe, the limit is 10 km/h
- Give way to pedestrians at all times.
- Be prepared to stop immediately if pedestrians are crossing or walking on the roadway.
- Drive carefully and watch for children, cyclists, and people entering the roadway unexpectedly.
Once you pass the End Shared Zone sign, the normal road rules and speed limit apply again.
What is the speed limit in a shared zone?
- If the sign says 10 km/h, the maximum speed is 10 km/h.
You must never exceed the posted speed limit.
What could cause me to fail in a shared zone?
You may fail your driving test if you:
- Exceed the posted speed limit.
- Fail to give way to pedestrians.
- Drive too fast for the conditions.
- Do not check carefully for pedestrians entering the roadway.
- Force pedestrians to stop or change direction because of your vehicle.
These behaviours may be assessed as serious driving errors.
Driving Test Tip
Remember this simple rule:
"Shared zone = pedestrians first, speed second."
The speed limit is a maximum, not a target. If pedestrians are nearby, slow down and be prepared to stop. Showing good observation and caution is exactly what a Queensland driving examiner wants to see.