With the ever-evolving legislations that the federal and state governments are introducing, Australian drivers are now facing changes in penalties for common offenses more than ever. Whether you are commuting in Melbourne, taking a road trip in Western Australia, or making deliveries in Queensland, staying informed about the new and upcoming fines and demerit point changes can preserve both your money and your license.
More Severe Consequences for Speeding and Using Mobile Phones
With the new penalties that are about to be forced in place, using a mobile phone while driving will now be more strongly enforced. Driving with a mobile phone and using it will be illegal to a more enforced degree. This will incur a fine of $500, and 4 demerit points will be handed out, an increase from the prior 3 points. From January 2025, speed limits will also be enforced more strictly than they are now. Urban driving will be capped at an exceeding speed of 10km/h. If this is the case, fines of $400 and 3 demerit points will be issued. These penalties will be harsher for repeat offenders. Two offenses within a 12-month period will lead to license suspension for frequent offenders.
| Offence | Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding >10 km/h (urban) | $400 | 3 | License suspension after 2 offences/year |
| Hand‐held mobile phone use | $500 | 4 | Applies statewide |
| Drink driving (>0.05 BAC) | $600 | 6 | Alcohol interlock requirement possible |
| Positive roadside drug test | $1,000 | 6 | Saliva testing rollout mid-2025 |
| Not wearing seatbelt | $350 | 3 | Including driver & front passenger |
| Passenger under 16 unrestrained | $350 | 3 | Child safety priority |
| Motorcycle helmet non-compliance | $275 | 3 | Applies in helmet‐mandated jurisdictions |
Stricter Alcohol and Substance Regulations for Driving
Australia’s strict policies regarding drink driving will also be taking a drastic turn in the upcoming years. Maintaining the current line of policies, Australia now treats drink driving with a BAC of 0.5 to be more strict than their previous laws. Increasing the fine to $600, 6 demerit points will also be issued. This also comes with mandatory alcohol interlock device installation for first time offenders. As for other substances, a 1000 bonus with 6 points for a positive would be the fine.
Updated Fines for Seatbelt and Protective Gear Safety Offences
Failing to comply with safety gear regulations is no longer an insignificant offence. Not wearing a seatbelt will set the driver back $350, incurring three demerit points. Moreover, allowing a passenger under the age of 16 to sit unrestrained incurs the same penalty. In regions where wearing a motorcycle helmet is obligatory, the offence attracts a fine of $275 alongside three demerit points.
How to Remain Safe and Compliant
Bluetooth hands-free devices, cruise control with speed limiting features, and defensive driving courses are a more effective and safer way to comply with regulations. It is beneficial to check regularly with a relevant local authority to confirm demerit point caps which are often set differently in different regions.
Adapting to driving habits that are safe and familiarizing oneself with the new fines will not only promote safe driving, but will also help avoid incurring unnecessary fines.