No, leaving a car running unattended is illegal in most Australian jurisdictions under anti-theft and environmental laws, with penalties ranging from fines to demerit points. Exceptions exist for remote areas, but enforcement by state police and local councils is tightening ahead of 2026 national vehicle security reforms.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Australia
- State-specific offences: New South Wales (Road Rules 2014, Rule 213), Victoria (Road Safety Road Rules 2017, Rule 237), and Queensland (Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Regulation 2021, s 26) explicitly prohibit leaving vehicles running unattended on roads or public places. Fines exceed $300 in NSW and $391 in Victoria.
- Local council powers: Councils in metropolitan areas (e.g., City of Melbourne, City of Sydney) may impose additional restrictions under Local Government Acts, particularly near schools or high-crime zones, with infringement notices issued by rangers.
- Environmental and security exemptions: Remote areas (e.g., Northern Territory’s Traffic Regulations 2023, s 12) permit unattended idling for climate control if the vehicle is locked and parked on private land, but this is subject to 2026 national anti-idling standards under the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure.