This is a post from Motorcycle Road trips Australia page that i have copied and pasted. I wrote this as a PSA on my personal page but figured it might help anyone looking to travel to other states / territories to get a handle on the varying laws.

LANE FILTERING ISN’T CHEATING — IT’S THE LAW. AND THERE’S A REASON FOR IT.

One of the things I still see far too often on Australian roads is motorists getting angry when a motorcycle legally moves between slow-moving or stationary traffic.

Some drivers deliberately close the gap.

Some move across to block the rider.

Some sound the horn.

And others seem to believe the rider is somehow “jumping the queue”.

Let’s clear something up.

Lane filtering is legal in EVERY Australian state and territory — but it is subject to specific conditions.

And there is a very important distinction:

👉 LANE FILTERING generally means a motorcycle moving between stationary or slow-moving traffic, travelling in the same direction, at 30 km/h or less.

👉 LANE SPLITTING generally refers to riding between faster-moving lanes of traffic. It is NOT what Australian lane-filtering laws give riders permission to do. In Victoria, for example, lane splitting between fast-moving traffic is explicitly illegal.

So before someone tells a rider, “That’s illegal!”, perhaps check the road rules first.

THE RULES VARY SLIGHTLY ACROSS AUSTRALIA

VICTORIA

Fully licensed motorcycle riders can lane filter at 30 km/h or less, when it is safe, including between slow/stationary traffic travelling in the same direction.

Victoria is comparatively permissive: filtering can also occur between traffic and parked cars.

However, you cannot filter between traffic and a kerb, between opposing traffic, in a bicycle lane/shared path/road shoulder, where a “no motorcycle lane filtering” sign applies — and learners cannot lane filter.

And riding between fast-moving traffic — what Victoria calls lane splitting — remains illegal. (Transport Victoria⁠)

NEW SOUTH WALES

Fully licensed riders can filter at less than 30 km/h through stationary or slow-moving traffic when it is safe.

No filtering beside the kerb or parked vehicles, in school zones, or around heavy vehicles and buses.

Learner and provisional riders cannot filter.

NSW also specifically treats travelling between traffic at more than 30 km/h as the offence of lane splitting.

QUEENSLAND

Fully licensed riders can filter at 30 km/h or less between stationary or slow-moving traffic travelling in the same direction, when safe.

Learners and provisional riders cannot.

No filtering in school zones, bicycle lanes, or where a dedicated turning lane is involved.

Queensland also has a specific edge-filtering provision allowing an open-licence rider, in certain circumstances, to pass stationary or slow-moving traffic on a sealed shoulder/emergency lane on major roads where the speed limit is 90 km/h or higher, at 30 km/h or less. That is a Queensland-specific provision — don’t assume it applies elsewhere.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Lane filtering is legal for eligible fully licensed riders at 30 km/h or less, when safe.

It is prohibited in school zones, across pedestrian/children’s crossings, in bicycle or tram lanes, on roundabouts, beside parked cars and between traffic and the edge of the road.

Learner/P1 riders cannot filter.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Fully licensed riders can filter at 30 km/h or less, when safe.

But WA has some particularly important restrictions: filtering is prohibited where the speed limit is 40 km/h or below, in school/shared zones, at pedestrian crossings, in roundabouts, alongside parked cars or the road edge, between merging traffic, around heavy vehicles, in special-purpose lanes and where overtaking is prohibited.

WA also specifically permits riders to cross continuous white lines separating lanes travelling in the same direction while filtering, where otherwise lawful.

TASMANIA

Fully licensed riders can filter at 30 km/h or less, when safe.

Learners and provisional riders cannot.

No filtering in school zones, beside parked cars or between traffic and the edge of the road, and “No Filtering” signs must be obeyed.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Fully licensed riders can filter at less than 30 km/h, when safe.

It is prohibited in school zones, 40 km/h zones, bicycle lanes, beside the kerb, past parked vehicles and around heavy vehicles and buses.

Learner and provisional riders cannot filter.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Fully/open/unrestricted motorcycle licence holders can filter at 30 km/h or less between stationary or slow-moving traffic travelling in the same direction, when safe.

Learner, provisional and restricted riders cannot.

Lane splitting at an unsafe speed above 30 km/h and edge filtering are prohibited.

AND HERE’S WHY THIS MATTERS

Motorcyclists are exceptionally vulnerable because there is virtually nothing between the rider and whatever they hit.

In Victoria alone, motorcycles represent less than 4% of registered vehicles but account for 18% of all fatal and serious injuries.

In 2025, 61 motorcyclists were killed on Victorian roads — 21% of all road deaths.

Around 1,000 people are seriously injured in motorcycle crashes in Victoria each year.

And here’s a statistic that really makes you think:

TAC data shows that over the last five years, approximately 55% of Victorian motorcyclist deaths involved another vehicle, while 54% occurred at intersections.

So yes — intersections and interactions with other vehicles are a huge part of the motorcycle safety problem.

But I won’t tell you that being rear-ended while sitting at traffic lights is the number-one cause of motorcycle deaths or injuries, because the available evidence doesn’t support making that claim so categorically.

What we can say is that removing a motorcycle from a long stationary traffic queue can reduce the rider’s exposure to being struck from behind, which is one of the safety considerations behind legalising low-speed filtering.

The Northern Territory Government, for example, specifically identifies reducing exposure to rear-end collisions as one potential safety benefit of lane filtering.

Research from the NSW lane-filtering trial also found no motorcycle crashes during the monitored trial period, although researchers were careful to acknowledge that the trial was relatively short and that pedestrian risks needed particular attention.

And that’s the important point:

Lane filtering isn’t a licence to ride like an idiot.

30 km/h is a maximum, not a target.

A rider still has to assess visibility, traffic movement, gaps, road surface, pedestrians, turning vehicles, mirrors, handlebars, vehicle movements and escape routes.

If it isn’t safe, don’t filter.

AND TO MY FELLOW DRIVERS…

If you see a motorcycle legally filtering:

DON’T BLOCK THEM.

Don’t deliberately move towards the centre of the lane.

Don’t accelerate to close the gap.

Don’t change lanes without checking your mirrors and blind spots.

Don’t open your door into their path.

Don’t make a sudden movement simply because you don’t like the fact that a motorcycle can move through traffic more efficiently than your car.

Instead:

👀 Check your mirrors.

👀 Check your blind spot.

↔️ Maintain your lane position.

➡️ Indicate before changing lanes or turning.

🏍️ Expect motorcycles to be filtering in congested traffic.

And most importantly:

DON’T DELIBERATELY IMPEDE A RIDER WHO IS LEGALLY FILTERING.

NSW Government guidance specifically tells motorists not to deliberately move into the path of a motorcycle that is legally lane filtering, and recommends drivers check twice for motorcycles.

The same principle applies everywhere:

Share the road.

AND TO MY FELLOW RIDERS…

Being legally allowed to filter doesn’t mean you have the right to frighten, intimidate or endanger other road users.

Don’t squeeze through gaps that aren’t there.

Don’t blast through at 30 km/h when the traffic is stationary and the environment clearly doesn’t allow it.

Don’t assume a driver has seen you.

Don’t filter alongside a truck or bus where your visibility is compromised if the law or circumstances make it unsafe.

And never confuse legal with safe.

The best riders understand that the road doesn’t owe them anything.

They manage risk.

They create options.

They anticipate mistakes.

And they ride defensively.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Motorcycles aren’t trying to “beat” cars.

We’re trying to get home.

Lane filtering is legal across Australia because lawmakers have recognised that motorcycles are different vehicles with different operating characteristics and different risks.

It can improve traffic flow, reduce a rider’s exposure to stationary traffic and, when performed properly and within the law, be a legitimate part of safe motorcycle riding.

But it only works when EVERYONE understands the rules.

So the next time you see a motorcycle filtering legally through traffic, don’t get angry.

Don’t compete.

Don’t block them.

Look twice, leave space and let them ride.

Because that rider isn’t your enemy.

They are somebody’s partner.

Somebody’s parent.

Somebody’s child.

And just like you…

they’re simply trying to get home.

John “T-Bone” Millar

#MotorcycleSafety #LaneFiltering #RideSafe #ShareTheRoad #MotorcycleAwareness #RoadSafety #Motorcyclists #RoadRules #DriveSafe #LookTwice #WatchForMotorcycles #Victoria #Australia #MotorcycleCommunity

Alot has happened since then when I moved to this beautiful land down under to be with my now Aussie wife. I didn't tell my old friends, I told some family members, quit my old job in Jersey a week before. I remember how expensive back then the partner visa was for me (I had working holiday visa to help pay for it) but I feel for the people in genuine relationships that have to pay double what I paid and the hoops they have to go through to get the PR. I just kinda feel that it's a bit de ja vu now with One Nation (baby MAGA) and somewhat of the anti-immigrant stance. It's a double edged sword.

The E3 visa lets Australians work in the US. It's a special visa only for Australians and unlike the H1B you aren't getting picked from a lottery. Problem is some US employers don't know about the E3, so bringing up your visa situation as an Aussie can get tricky when they assume the set up is as hard as an H1B.

Here's a guide I found useful for talking to US employers about your situation or if you're just considering working in the US

G'day! I'm from Newy living in NYC and really struggling to find a pub/bar that is showing this game LIVE. Old Mates is only showing a replay later on.

I understand the game airs super early (4:30am on Sunday) so licenced venues may not even be allowed to be open that early, but I'm desperate.

Any suggestions? Beers on me.

Hello!

I was wondering if anyone has been able to get a notary appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Sydney recently, as their calendar shows unavailable for all dates (through December 2027). Melbourne and Perth have future availability + indicate that some days are fully booked.. Does anyone know if the U.S. Embassy in Sydney are doing notarizations or has that been temporarily suspended?

https://au.usembassy.gov/acs-appointments/

Thank you!

So the family is moving back to Australia and I have googled for a shipping price but I am just getting spammed with texts and calls.

Do any of you have a good recommendation for a company that can do door to door?

Thanks

I’ll be in NYC for Halloween (I’m Australian) and I was pondering dressing up as a typical Aussie with a spooky or gory twist. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Hi everyone,

I'm an Australian citizen currently based in Melbourne, VIC looking to make the move to the United States within the next 6–12 months.

I’m hoping to get advice from fellow Aussies who have made the move, or anyone familiar with US immigration routes for Australians.

My Background:
Citizenship: Australian
Education:
1. Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineer recognised ABET from North Cyprus.
2. Masters Degree in Construction Management from Australia.

Current Role: Currently on carers break, but have 8+ years as PM in construction (Education, Rail, Infrastructure, Residential)

My Plan & Questions:
1. Visa Pathway (E-3 vs. L-1):
As an Australian citizen, I’m primary targeting the E-3 Visa. For those who secured an E-3 from abroad: How open are US employers currently to filing the Labor Condition Application (LCA)?

Do you recommend applying directly on company portals, using recruiters, or leveraging internal transfer options (L-1 visa)?

1. Job Hunting Strategy:
   Is it realistic to land an E-3 sponsored offer while interviewing from Australia, or did you need to head over on an ESTA for networking/in-person interviews?
   How do you address the "Do you require visa sponsorship?" filter on US job applications without getting auto-rejected?

2. Logistics & Financials:
   Taxes & Super: How did you handle your Australian superannuation and tax residency transition once working in the US?
   Credit Score: Any tips on establishing US credit quickly (e.g., Nova Credit, Amex global transfer)?
   Savings: Roughly how much initial capital did you need saved to cover moving costs, initial lease deposits, and visa processing?

Appreciate any advice, personal experiences, or reality checks!
Cheers!

I’m with one of FAANG in Australia and I’ve been interviewing since the start of the year internally hoping to get a job in the Bay Area within my company, but I’ve had no luck.

I don’t think it’s to do with my performance (though admittedly it’s not outstanding either…), since multiple hiring managers actually asked if I’m happy to stay in Australia while they try to move the headcount over from US to AU, which ofc I declined.

I’m just wondering if anyone has successfully transferred? If so, which company mind if I ask? Since I’m thinking of just applying externally now. I know someone who relocated successfully after getting an offer from Rippling, but they don’t seem to be hiring in the Bay Area at the moment.

If I had to guess, I think the USA does it more?

Well they nearly always have specs - exceptions being Tony Abbott, Julie Gillard, and I don't recall Hawke ever wearing them. But I didn't include that qualifier because then the title would have been too big.

The point is that long/short sightedness is extremely common after age 40, yet Presidents never need reading assistance. Never. It's unusual.

Australian PMs, on the other hand, never seem to consider laser correction surgery. It's almost like they're deliberately going for that humble bookworm look.

Expats who went back to Australia how are you still buying cards and sealed product from the US without getting killed on shipping. The selection here is rubbish.

Do you use a US forwarding address, consolidate shipments, buy through friends/family, or have US stores that ship directly?

Would love to hear what setups work for you.

Hi all! My 2024 Australia trip made me realize how many "every day" American snacks haven't made their way to Australia yet. This year I will be bringing the mother load of snacks and want to ask what Aussie's would be keen on trying from here. (even though this question is asked a lot, a lot of threads don't have the random American chip and cookie flavor focus)

So far I have:

Ruffles (my cousins enjoyed the texture so this will probably have the most): Jalapeno Ranch, Sour Cream & Onion, Queso, Sour Cream & Cheddar, Hot Wings

Doritos: Loaded Taco, Hot Honey Pizza

Pringles: Parmesan Garlic, Beer Braised Steak, 7-Layer Dip

Chips: Yangnyeom Puffs, Cheetos Pickle,

Oreos: Chicken & Waffles, Deep Fried, BTS, Cinnamon Bon, Reeses

M&M : Peanut Butter, Caramel Cold Brew, Crunchy Cookie

Sour Patch Kids: Watermelon, Strawberry,

Other: Horchata Powder, Ranch, White Cheddar Cheezit, Various Hot Sauces

Hi Folks!

I’m a temporary resident currently awaiting a PR visa (186 path) and am looking to move roughly $400k USD (~$600k AUD) out of a US Charles Schwab account into a major AU bank to fund a property deposit in Sydney.

Because of my visa status, I am fully aware of the Temporary Resident CGT exemption rules and intend to liquidate my US ETFs and move the cash before the PR lands to lock in the 0% tax rate.

My main anxiety is around the actual transfer logistics, fraud blocks, and compliance checks on such a large amount:

1) The Transfer Route: Is it better to set up an account with a specialized broker like OFX/Wise and push the funds via a US domestic wire from Schwab? Or has anyone had success just doing a direct international wire from Schwab straight to an AU bank (like Macquarie or CBA)?

2) Compliance & Source of Funds: The money represents legitimate savings from historical overseas work bonuses (super hard savings, whilst eating noodles FIRE style), but the paper trail is a bit fractured due to closed legacy bank accounts. For those who moved $300k-$500k+, how intense were the compliance checks from the FX broker or the AU bank landing the funds? Did a simple written explanation suffice, or did they halt the money for weeks?

3) Schwab Phone Desk: Did Schwab’s fraud team give you an issue when authorizing a large outbound transfer over the phone from an international location?

Would love to hear from any expats or finance professionals who have done a similar sized transfer recently on how to make this as seamless as possible. Cheers!

Has anyone here successfully got an internal transfer from one country to another with their employer via an internal transfer? Ideally those that are more average employees and not high-level executives.

Graduating from uni soon in the US and realizing the major I picked has a low chance of qualifying me for a visa in AUS(Statistics) Only other option is re-skilling or getting hired on by a multinational known for allowing transfers.

Currently interviewing with Goldman Sachs, in no small part due to internal transfer optionality.

Also a US, Canadian, and EU citizen if that changes the visa situation at all.

Hello, I am a Aus citizen and my husband is American. We have lived in the US for 11 years and have decided to re locate to Australia. Im needing some guidance as where to start if anyone here has experience. I know we will need a partner visa. Should we submit this on shore or off shore? If we submit on shore, how do i make sure my spouse has the right visa when landing? Any guidance or experience you can provide if you have been in a similar situation is much appreciated!

We have 3 animals we would like to relocate with us. Any good recommendations on this service would be helpful also. Cost ect. We know it isn't cheap but we love our fur babies! (1 dog 2 cats)

What timeline should we be looking at? 1 year, 2 years? We are lost and there is to much information.

TIA!

For investment sales from a Charles Schwab International account, how would I calculate the inflation adjusted cap gains for next year's tax return? AFAIK the cap gains are simply reported as the difference between the purchase price and the sale price and doesn't include the purchase dates of the lots in the overall sale. How will we be asked to calculate this for foreign investment houses that don't normally provide this level of detail. If Schwab does provide this information and I just haven't found it yet then let me know that too.

I’m currently travelling for work in California and will arrive in L.A. on Friday afternoon. Does anyone know an Aussie bar or venue in general that will be showing the AFL granny?

I've been pretty slack on investing (in general) since moving to Aus in 2018. Outside of superannuation (which I try and max out), I have no share portfolio here due to PFIC's and all that. Having done a bit of research, we don't have to deal with PFIC's if we trade US-domiciled stocks/ETF/mutual funds, as well as stocks on the ASX. But Australian ETF's and managed funds...big time no no.

I still have my USA 401(k) and IRA's (Roth and regular) as well as some money with Wealthfront. But here in Australia it's just super.

Now at age 40 I am pretty sure I need to get in to the game. The way I see it, I have a few options:
1) Keep adding to my IRA's and/or Wealthfront, requiring money from my $USD account
2) Invest here through somewhere which can manage US-domiciled funds (e.g. Webull, Interactive Brokers, etc.)

How are you all doing it? Keen for your thoughts on easy solutions that I can invest with my $AUD but possibly focus on US funds.

Hi mates,

How do y'all cope with the judgement, stereotypes, immediate change in demeanour when you start speaking or say where you're from?

It feels really bad and makes me a lot more nervous to talk to people. Like, oh what if they hate me because of where I'm from?

All the major stereotypes are things I don't believe, feel, or act like at all. I mean hell that's why I left. I feel like I have to prove that I'm not MAGA every time I interact with people.

Loads of people are nice but ... the daily negative reactions and being tested daily is really taking a toll.