How Far Can You Legally Park from the Gutter in Australia? — Parallel Parking Explained

Parallel parking remains one of the most challenging manoeuvres for both learner and experienced drivers. Whether you're worried about rashing your wheels, blocking traffic, or failing your driving test, understanding how far you can legally park from the kerb (or gutter) is essential for every motorist in Australia.

Let’s break down exactly how far away from the kerb you can legally park — and what happens if you get it wrong.

Why Is Parallel Parking So Difficult?

A 2022 RACQ survey found that:

• 1 in 3 learner drivers struggle with parallel parking.
• 1 in 2 provisional drivers admit it's one of their biggest challenges.
• Reverse right-angle parking is a distant second, with only 1 in 8 drivers citing it as difficult.

Parallel parking requires drivers to manage multiple variables at once: ✅ Avoiding the car in front ✅ Avoiding the car behind ✅ Preventing gutter rash on wheels ✅ Parking close enough to the kerb to comply with the law

What Do the Road Rules Say About Parking Distance?

Under Australia’s Road Rules 2014 Regulation 208, the general rule is that you must park “as near as practicable to the far left or far right side of the road” — but the exact distance varies depending on your state or territory and whether you're taking a driving test or simply parking on public roads.

Parallel Parking Distances for Driving Tests:

• NSW & NT: Within 500mm of the kerb
• QLD: Within 450mm
• VIC, ACT & SA: Within 300mm
• WA & TAS: No exact distance, but must be “as close as reasonably possible”

Failing to meet these distances during a driving test usually results in an automatic failure for the parking section.

Legal Parking Distances on the Road

Although there’s no national rule on maximum distance from the kerb when parking on regular roads, there are additional requirements when parking near:

• Solid dividing lines or traffic islands: You must park at least three metres away from any continuous dividing line or island unless signage says otherwise.
• Opposite parked cars: You must allow for a three-metre gap between your vehicle and the parked cars on the other side of the road.

Failure to follow these rules could result in a parking fine.

Fines for Incorrect Parallel Parking

Parking too far from the kerb or too close to other vehicles may attract fines, which vary by state:

Can You Repair Gutter Rash on Your Wheels?

If you've accidentally parked too close and scuffed your wheels — don't panic. Gutter rash is fully repairable.

• Minor repairs: Around $100 per wheel
• Major repairs: Up to $500 per wheel

Many specialist wheel repair businesses can restore your rims to like-new condition, saving you from costly wheel replacements.

Quick Tips to Master Parallel Parking

• Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
• Use your mirrors: Always check side mirrors for kerb distance.
• Go slow: There’s no prize for speed when parking.
• Adjust and correct: Don’t be afraid to reposition your vehicle for better accuracy.
• Know your state’s requirements: Be aware of your state’s legal parking distances, especially if you're preparing for a driving test.

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Credit: Drive.com.au