Editing Australia (section)

==== Other people's cars ====
Hitch-hiking is not commonplace in Australia any more, but still a viable means of transport that can expose you to the (secret) lives of real Australians while getting you around. Moreover it is the automotive equivalent of couch surfing!

There are some things to consider before setting out by thumb cross country, but none would be so crucial as to maintain some sense of independence against the elements: take a good wide brimmed sun hat, warm and cool clothing, rain gear (if only an umbrella), a water bottle and keep some food on you in case you get hungry. That's the basic minimum that ought not be forgotten when waiting by the roadside in Australia.

Hitchhiking is illegal in Victoria and Queensland. It is also illegal to stand on the verge of motorways in all states (even though many are now permitting pedestrians and cyclists on them). If you are going to hitchhike, be careful of main roads and if in a state where it is illegal, be discreet. You are unlikely to draw police attention as long as you're not a danger to traffic (standing in the roadway). 

Consider you safety - road safety and being safe around strangers. Like many other activities while traveling, there are indisputable risks involved in meeting new and unknown people in  relatively private confines. If that frightens you, you would be ill advised to hitch-hike. If it excites you, then hitch-hiking Australia has a great many rewards to offer. 

Google will point you at any number of resources and travel tales about hitch-hiking Australia. Try these for starters:

* [http://www.outback-australia-travel-secrets.com/hitchhiking-in-australia.html Outback Australia Travel Guide]
* [http://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Australia Australia on Hitchwiki]
* [http://www.bugaustralia.com/transport/hitch.html The Backpacker's Ultimate Guide]
* [http://www.jayride.com.au/ Jayride Rideshare and Hitchhike]
* [http://bernd.wechner.info/Hitchhiking/Memories/chapter4.html Anywhere But Here: The Memories of a Hitch-hiker]

[[File:Crux.jpg|frame|The Southern Cross]]