Centre-lines

Legislation

As stated in the TCD rule, clause 7.2(3):

On a two-way roadway that is marked in three or more lanes (not including cycle lanes), the two directions of traffic must, as appropriate to the number of lanes, the speed limit and the anticipated volume of traffic, be separated or indicated by the following:

(a) a barrier; or

(b) median; or

(c) a centre-line, which must be defined by marking:

    - a white, continuous line distinguishable from the lines marking the lanes; or

    - a no-passing line in one of the forms described in [Section 2.4.4]; or

    - a flush median described in [Section 2.4.3]; or

    - wide centre-lines as described in [Section 2.4.2]; or

(d) the use of variable lane control signs installed in accordance with [Section 10.2].

For guidance on the type of centre-line treatment that may be appropriate, refer to Table 2‑4. 

Table 2‑4

Clause 7.7(2) of the TCD rule states that:

When providing a raised traffic island, a road controlling authority must:

(a) install, on the traffic island, reflectorised traffic signs complying with section 4 of the TCD Rule that the road controlling authority considers are necessary to guide drivers around the traffic island; and

(b) place markings or delineators on the roadway beside the traffic island to inform drivers of the presence and extent of the traffic island.

In addition, clause 7.7(3) of the TCD Rule states that:

Before a road controlling authority installs, plants or places any object on a raised traffic island, it must consider the purpose of that object and the risks to road users. If the road controlling authority determines that the object is necessary, or that the risk it poses requires management, the road controlling authority must:

(a) install barriers around the object; or

(b) ensure that the object is frangible; or

(c) take such measures as are reasonable in the circumstances to mitigate any foreseeable risk.

Layout/design

Centre-lines should be marked as per Table 2‑41.

Table 2‑41: Centre-line markings for multi-lane undivided roads

Table 2‑41 notes:

1. Refer to Figure 2‑35(b)
2. In urban areas where there is extensive commercial or industrial development adjacent to the road a white continuous centre-line marking may be used instead of the markings described for dual undivided roadways, providing it is not dangerous for vehicles to cross the centre-line and the RCA agrees to the alternative centre-line marking.
   Refer to Figure 2‑35(c)