Melbourne Hook Turn

A hook turn is a right-hand turn made from the left-hand lane of a road, at an intersection with traffic lights. Hook turns are unique to Melbourne, Australia.

Hook turns were introduced in Melbourne in 1965 to improve traffic flow and safety at intersections with trams. Trams have priority at intersections, and before hook turns were introduced, they would often be delayed by cars waiting to turn right. Hook turns allow cars to turn right without blocking the trams, and they also help to reduce congestion at intersections.

To perform a hook turn, you must approach the intersection from the left-hand lane and signal right. Then, you must move forward into the intersection and stop at the far side of the road, keeping clear of any pedestrian crossings. Once the traffic lights on the road you are turning into have turned green, you can turn right and proceed straight ahead.

Hook turns can be a little confusing at first, but they are easy to learn. Just remember to approach the intersection from the left-hand lane, signal right, and move forward into the intersection. Then, stop at the far side of the road and wait for the traffic lights to turn green. Once the lights are green, you can turn right and proceed straight ahead.

Here are some tips for performing a hook turn safely:

• Make sure you are familiar with the rules of hook turns before you attempt one.
• Approach the intersection from the left-hand lane.
• Signal right well in advance.
• Move forward into the intersection and stop at the far side of the road, keeping clear of any pedestrian crossings.
• Wait for the traffic lights on the road you are turning into to turn green.
• Turn right and proceed straight ahead.

If you are unsure about how to perform a hook turn, you can always ask a local for help. Melbourne residents are generally very friendly and helpful, and they will be happy to show you how to do a hook turn 👍


Try a hook turn in a hire car from  Melbourne partners


Credit: Youtube video with courtesy of VicRoads