Albert Park Circuit

[3] Although the entire track consists of normally public roads, each sector includes medium to high-speed characteristics more commonly associated with dedicated racetracks facilitated by grass and gravel run-off safety zones that are reconstructed annually.

As a result, compared to other circuits that are held on public roads, the Albert Park track has quite a smooth surface.

The course is considered to be quite fast and relatively easy to drive, drivers having commented that the consistent placement of corners allows them to easily learn the circuit and achieve competitive times.

[4][5][6] Each year, most of the trackside fencing, pedestrian overpasses, grandstands, and other motorsport infrastructure are erected approximately two months before the Grand Prix weekend and removed within 6 weeks after the event.

The land around the circuit (including a large aquatic centre, a golf course, a Lakeside Stadium, some restaurants, and rowing boathouses) has restricted access during that entire period.

Double lines separate the two-way traffic along most of Lakeside Drive with short road islands approximately every 50 m (55 yd) which means overtaking is illegal here.

Prior to World War II, attempts were made to use Albert Park for motor racing.

Finally in 1953 the Light Car Club of Australia were able to secure use of the circuit for that year's Australian Grand Prix.

[11] As of March 2024, the fastest official race lap records at the Albert Park Circuit are listed as:[28][29][30]

A satellite view of the circuit just before race weekend 2018
Grand Prix Circuit layout between 1996 and 2020
The Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit old layout in December 2017, while open to the public
Albert Park circuit main straight, pictured from above teams' garages in 2022
The 2014 Australian Grand Prix, viewed from the Eureka Skydeck