Balladonia Road

This question comes up all the time, so here’s the straight answer.

Yes — you can drive it.
But it is officially a closed road, and if you choose to use it, you take full responsibility.

Why it’s “closed”:

At the Esperance Shire (southern) end, it’s effectively tolerated. They don’t police it and don’t seem concerned if people use it.

At the Dundas Shire (northern) end, the road is declared closed so the Shire doesn’t have to maintain it or accept any liability. There is signage stating this.

That sign has been there for at least 27 years. It’s always been there, it will always be there, and people will continue to ignore it. People don’t get fined — but legality matters if something goes wrong.

The real risk:
If you get stuck, break down, or need recovery:
No insurance
No liability
No expectation of assistance
You are on your own.

Road conditions:
It varies depending on rain.
If it has rained recently: don’t drive it.
When dry: generally passable, but rough, corrugated, and not maintained.
Expect sharp limestone protrusions and a rough middle section, despite the flat terrain.

Who should consider it:
Experienced outback drivers only
Fully self-sufficient (water, food, first aid, tools, spares)
Comfortable managing breakdowns or recovery without help

If you don’t need the shortcut, or don’t want the risk — don’t take it.
There’s no prize for using it, only consequences if it goes pear-shaped.

Michelle

PS we do use this track from time to time but not recently - although we've driven past the sign at the top end numerous times in the last 2 years and I keep an ever-watchful eye on anecdotal stories on facebook as I do for all tracks around Australia so that I am informed of changes.