03/02/2026
Respect
WHAT ARE THE LAWS WHEN FOLLOWING A FUNERAL PROCESSION?
In Australia, funeral processions are generally given the right-of-way, and drivers are expected to not interrupt or interfere with them.
Specific rules vary by state, but the core principle remains the same: respect for the deceased and those in mourning.
General Guidelines.
Don't Interfere:
Avoid driving through or cutting into a funeral procession.
Yield the Right-of-Way:
Just as you would for emergency vehicles, give way to a funeral procession.
Slow Down and Stay Behind:
If you encounter a procession, slow down and maintain a safe distance behind it.
Be Respectful:
Turn on your headlights to indicate you are part of the procession, and avoid actions that might disrupt the solemnity of the event.
State-Specific Rules:
New South Wales:
It is an offense to "interfere or interrupt" a funeral procession. The NSW Government advises that drivers must not interrupt a funeral procession and should slow down and stay behind it.
Queensland:
Similar to NSW, drivers must not interrupt a funeral procession. The Queensland Government states that you should slow down and stay behind the procession.
South Australia:
Drivers must not interfere with or interrupt a funeral procession. South Australian Legislation states it is an offense to interfere with the free passage of a procession.
Victoria:
While no specific law prohibits interrupting a funeral procession, Transport Victoria advises drivers are generally expected to be respectful and allow the procession to proceed uninterrupted.
Western Australia:
Drivers must not interfere with or interrupt a funeral procession.
Funeral processions generally have right-of-way, and it's considered respectful to minimise noise and speed when passing.
Regardless of laws Hannah’s Blue Butterflies Road Safety Awareness Inc.on-
Compassion, respect and empathy should be given to any funeral procession.
