Code of Conduct (Code of Ethics)

Off-Road Code of Conduct

  1. Obey the laws and regulations for Recreational Vehicles that apply to public lands.
  2. Respect the cultural, heritage and environmental values of public/private land, by obeying restrictions that may apply.
  3. Respect our flora and fauna. Stop and look, but never disturb.
  4. Keep to formed vehicle tracks.
  5. Keep the environment clean. Carry your own, and any other, rubbish out.
  6. Keep your vehicle mechanically sound and clean to reduce the environmental impact. 
  7. Adopt minimal impact camping and driving practices.
  8. Seek permission before driving on private land. Do not disturb livestock or watering points, leave gates as found.
  9. Take adequate water, food, fuel, basic spares and a first aid kit on trips. In remote areas travel with another vehicle and have Royal Flying Doctor Service, or equivalent emergency contact by radio or satellite.
  10. Plan ahead and lodge trip details with a responsible person.
  11. Enjoy your recreation and respect the rights of others.
  12. Support four-wheel drive touring as a legitimate family activity
  13. Consider joining an affiliated four-wheel drive club

 

On-Road Code of Conduct

  1. Obey all the laws and regulations that apply to vehicles on public and private roads.
  2. Respect the rights of others to use and share the road space – acknowledge that your vehicle may be wider and higher than others, so keep as far left of the road as possible so as to allow a following driver some oncoming line of sight before fully committing his vehicle to the opposite side of the road.
  3. Keep a safe distance between vehicles – acknowledge that increased weight and tyre choice can affect braking distance.
  4. When following a smaller vehicle, increase the distance so that its mirrors have adequate vision beyond the larger vehicle.
  5. Break up convoys into groups of no more than 5 vehicles with larger separation between groups.
  6. Leave overtaking space between groups – be aware of overtaking vehicles and their requirements when moving through the group.
  7. Take care when cornering – acknowledge that increased weight combined with a raised centre of gravity can affect vehicle handling.
  8. Take care when reversing – check blind spots and ensure that no one has walked behind your vehicle before you reverse. If necessary get out of the vehicle to make sure the area behind is clear.
  9. Be aware of vision limitations and be particularly observant near children to avoid accidents.
  10. Ensure your vehicle complies with relevant State legislation in relation to roadworthiness and modifications.
  11. Keep your vehicle clean and in good mechanical condition to reduce the environmental impact.
  12. Make others aware that your four-wheel drive is a legitimate choice of lifestyle or family vehicle.
  13. Consider joining an affiliated four-wheel drive Club.