New Traffic Fine List – Starting June 2025, Australian drivers will face a nationwide hike in traffic penalties as confirmed by the National Transport Commission (NTC). This bold move is aimed at reducing road accidents, enforcing better driving behavior, and bringing uniformity to fines across states. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, or Brisbane – the new traffic rules apply to everyone, and ignorance could cost you heavily.
In this comprehensive guide, we cover the newly updated traffic fine list, changes introduced by the NTC, key offenses, increased amounts, and what every vehicle owner needs to do immediately to avoid costly mistakes.
Why Has the New Traffic Fine List?
The NTC stated that the decision was driven by a worrying rise in fatal road incidents and non-compliance across the country. Here’s why the changes were implemented:
- National Road Safety Strategy goals for 2021–2030 were not being met.
- Over 1,200 road fatalities were recorded in 2024 alone.
- Current fines were not acting as a deterrent for repeat offenders.
- The government aims to standardize penalties across all states and territories.
These new penalties are now legally binding and effective from June 1, 2025.
Full List of New Traffic Fines – Effective June 2025
Below is a comparison table showing the most common traffic offenses and the revised fine amounts. These apply uniformly across all Australian states and territories.
| Offense | Previous Fine (AUD) | New Fine (AUD) | Points Deducted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding 10–20 km/h over limit | $275 | $385 | 3 |
| Speeding 20–30 km/h over limit | $467 | $610 | 4 |
| Using mobile phone while driving | $495 | $620 | 5 |
| Running a red light | $464 | $590 | 3 |
| Drink driving – First offense | $1,100 | $1,450 | 6 + suspension |
| Driving without seatbelt | $298 | $450 | 3 |
| Unregistered vehicle on road | $704 | $880 | 4 |
| Dangerous driving | $1,500+ | $2,200+ | License suspension |
Note: Fines may increase with repeated offenses or if compounded with other violations.
Key Changes in Speeding and Mobile Usage Penalties
Speeding and phone-related violations are now considered top-tier offenses under the 2025 revisions. Here’s what drivers need to know:
- Mobile phone use, even while stopped at a red light, will now attract $620 and 5 demerit points.
- Repeat speeding offenses within 12 months can lead to instant license suspension.
- States like NSW and Victoria will also run double demerit periods during holidays and long weekends.
Drink Driving and Dangerous Behavior Crackdown
The NTC is pushing a zero-tolerance policy for drink driving. Updated rules include:
- Mandatory alcohol testing checkpoints on high-risk routes.
- First-time offenders face up to $1,450 fine and license suspension.
- Second-time or high-range offenders may face court summons, vehicle impounding, or jail.
Vehicle Registration, Roadworthiness & Admin Offenses
Apart from driving behavior, new rules also affect vehicle condition and documentation:
| Documentation/Vehicle Offense | Old Fine (AUD) | New Fine (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Driving with expired registration | $660 | $880 |
| No compulsory third-party insurance (CTP) | $750 | $1,000 |
| Failure to update license address | $85 | $150 |
| Tampering with number plates | $550 | $750 |
| Missing roadworthy certification | $520 | $730 |
| Failing to provide license when asked | $112 | $210 |
| Incorrect use of headlights | $122 | $230 |
Payment Deadlines, Discounts & Enforcement
- Fines can be paid via the official MyGov or Service NSW portals.
- Early payment (within 21 days) may qualify for a 5–10% discount in select states.
- Unpaid fines beyond 30 days may result in:
- License suspension
- Vehicle seizure
- Legal proceedings
- Use only official portals for payment. Avoid fake websites or third-party agents.
Department Contact Information – State-wise Helpline
| State/Territory | Transport Authority | Contact Number | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Service NSW | 13 22 13 | service.nsw.gov.au |
| VIC | VicRoads | 13 11 71 | vicroads.vic.gov.au |
| QLD | Queensland Transport & Main Roads | 13 23 80 | tmr.qld.gov.au |
| SA | SA Gov Transport | 13 10 84 | sa.gov.au |
| WA | Department of Transport WA | 13 11 56 | transport.wa.gov.au |
| TAS | Tasmania Department of State Growth | 1300 135 513 | transport.tas.gov.au |
| ACT | Access Canberra | 13 22 81 | act.gov.au |
| NT | NT MVR (Motor Vehicle Registry) | 1300 654 628 | nt.gov.au |
FAQs – New Traffic Fine List
Q1. From when are the new fines effective in Australia?
A: All new penalties are effective from June 1, 2025, across all states and territories.
Q2. Can I pay traffic fines online?
A: Yes, use official transport portals like MyGov or your state’s transport department.
Q3. What happens if I don’t pay my fine on time?
A: Late payment leads to additional fees, possible license suspension, and even court action.
Q4. Are all states following the same fine structure?
A: Yes, the NTC has mandated a nationalized fine system from 2025 to ensure uniformity.
Q5. Are there discounts for paying fines early?
A: In some states, yes. A 5–10% early payment discount may be available.
Q6. Will these new fines replace existing laws?
A: They update and override previous penalty amounts but retain the same legal offenses.
Australia’s traffic penalty system is now stricter than ever, and drivers must take it seriously. With higher fines, demerit points, and the risk of license suspension, staying compliant is not just legal—it’s smart. Whether you drive daily or occasionally, make sure your documents are in order, your vehicle is roadworthy, and your behavior on the road reflects responsibility.
