Australia’s New Driving Laws – Australia is introducing sweeping new driving laws effective from June 1, 2025, bringing in tougher fines, stricter rules, and zero-tolerance enforcement. These changes, announced by the National Transport Commission (NTC) and state transport departments, aim to reduce road fatalities and promote safer driving behaviour. If you drive in Australia, here’s everything you must know to avoid getting caught unaware.
Heavier Fines and New Penalties in Australia from June 2025
As part of the new legislation, traffic fines will increase across most offences, including speeding, mobile phone usage, and drink driving. The updated system introduces uniform fines across all states and territories, eliminating confusion over different regional penalties.
Key Highlights of the New Driving Laws:
- Fines for mobile phone usage while driving will nearly double.
- Speeding above 10 km/h now carries a higher financial penalty and demerit points.
- Zero alcohol tolerance for probationary and commercial drivers.
- Compulsory retesting for repeat offenders.
- Stricter penalties for not giving way to emergency vehicles.
Why These Changes?
According to the NTC, over 1,200 deaths occurred on Australian roads in 2024, with a significant percentage linked to distracted and reckless driving. The new rules are meant to address these deadly trends and promote responsible road use.
Complete Fine Chart: Speeding, Phone Use, Drink Driving, and More
Here is a breakdown of updated traffic fines effective from June 1, 2025, based on offence categories:
| Offence Type | Previous Fine | New Fine (From June 2025) | Demerit Points | Licence Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Using mobile phone while driving | $496 | $1,005 | 5 | No |
| Speeding 10–20 km/h over limit | $287 | $525 | 3 | No |
| Speeding 20–30 km/h over limit | $455 | $800 | 4 | Yes (2 months) |
| Drink driving (first offence) | $561 | $1,200 | 10 | Yes (6 months) |
| Failing to stop for emergency | $387 | $750 | 4 | Yes (1 month) |
| Driving without seatbelt | $370 | $665 | 3 | No |
| Running a red light | $413 | $745 | 3 | No |
Note: These fines apply across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, NT, and ACT.
New Driving Rules by Category
Apart from fine increases, several new legal obligations have been added for motorists.
Speeding Laws
- School zone speeding fines will now carry double penalties.
- All speed detection cameras will operate 24/7 with real-time updates.
- Provisional licence holders will be suspended after 2 speeding offences within 12 months.
Alcohol and Drug Driving
- Zero-alcohol policy now extends to all Uber and delivery drivers.
- Mandatory roadside drug testing during random breath test operations.
- Repeat offenders will be subjected to ignition interlock devices.
Mobile Phone Usage
- Only fully hands-free systems allowed, even at traffic signals.
- Smartwatches now fall under “mobile devices” and are banned during driving.
Seatbelt and Safety Equipment
- All passengers must wear seatbelts, including those in rideshare and taxis.
- Parents must ensure proper child restraints for kids under 7.
- New cars must have advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) by 2026.
Emergency Vehicle Protocol
- Drivers must slow down to 40 km/h when passing a stopped emergency vehicle.
- Failure to do so now results in higher fines and licence suspension.
Vehicle Registration & Roadworthiness
- Driving an unregistered vehicle incurs automatic impoundment.
- All vehicles must pass roadworthy tests annually regardless of age.
How to Pay the New Fines Online
Paying your fine is now easier with unified digital access across all states:
NSW: Visit www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/fines
Victoria: Pay online at www.fines.vic.gov.au
Queensland: Use www.qld.gov.au/fines
South Australia: Visit www.fines.sa.gov.au
All platforms accept credit cards, BPAY, or Service NSW/Vic/QLD portals.
Contact Numbers by State Transport Departments
| State/Territory | Department | Helpline Number |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Transport for NSW | 13 22 13 |
| Victoria | VicRoads | 13 11 71 |
| Queensland | Department of Transport and Main Roads | 13 23 80 |
| South Australia | Service SA | 13 10 84 |
| Western Australia | Department of Transport WA | 13 11 56 |
| Tasmania | Transport Tasmania | 1300 135 513 |
| Northern Territory | MVR NT | 1300 654 628 |
| Australian Capital Terr. | Access Canberra | 13 22 81 |
FAQs – Australia’s New Driving Laws
Q1: When will these new traffic fines take effect?
A: The new fines and rules come into force from June 1, 2025, across all states.
Q2: Will learner and provisional drivers face harsher penalties?
A: Yes, they face automatic suspension after two offences within 12 months.
Q3: Can I still use my phone at traffic lights?
A: No. All hand-held or touch-based interaction is banned, even when stopped.
Q4: What happens if I fail to pay a fine?
A: Non-payment may result in licence suspension, additional late fees, and court enforcement.
Q5: Are the new laws the same across Australia?
A: Yes. The rules and penalties have been standardised nationwide.
Q6: Will the new laws impact commercial drivers more?
A: Yes. Drivers of trucks, taxis, delivery services, and rideshares face zero-tolerance alcohol policies and stricter mobile phone rules.
Q7: Can I dispute the fine if I think it’s wrong?
A: Yes, you can lodge a formal appeal through your state’s traffic fine portal or local court system.
Australia’s new traffic laws bring a nationwide crackdown on irresponsible driving, with heavy fines and tougher consequences starting June 1, 2025. Whether you’re a daily commuter, rideshare driver, or occasional traveler, now is the time to review these updates and make sure your driving habits are compliant.
Failing to adjust could cost you not just money but also your licence or vehicle. Always stay updated via your state’s official transport website and pay any outstanding fines before they escalate.
