Safety Information for Truck and Bus Drivers

The South Eastern Freeway, on the approach to Adelaide, includes a long steep downhill descent before arriving at a major intersection. 

Before you attempt to drive down the South Eastern Freeway, use the information provided to remind yourself how to do this safely.

Just one driver who is not willing to admit they have made a mistake, or recognise when they need a safety refresher, could cost multiple lives.

About the South Eastern Freeway

The South Eastern Freeway forms part of the Adelaide-to-Melbourne road corridor and is an important strategic freight route for South Australia. In 2021, the South Eastern Freeway, between Crafers interchange and Glen Osmond, carried an average of approximately 48,000 vehicles per day, with approximately 5,200 of these classed as heavy vehicles.

The South Eastern Freeway has unique conditions that require truck and bus drivers to follow certain rules and laws to ensure a safe journey for all road users.

The South Australian Government has committed to undertaking a comprehensive review of heavy vehicle safety on the South Eastern Freeway down-track (the city-bound lanes) between Crafers and the intersection of Cross Road, Portrush Road and Glen Osmond Road.

• Road safety

  Read about how you can descend the South Eastern Freeway safely, safety ramp locations and other safety considerations on the freeway.

• Laws, offences and penalties

  Learn about the laws and penalties that are applicable to the South Eastern Freeway down-track.