Australia has seen a significant change in the 2025 road safety laws concerning distracted driving and the use of mobile phones. As of the new national guidelines, driving while using a mobile device incurs a $550 fine and 4 demerit points. This change illustrates the government’s goal in preventing road accidents caused by distractions and demonstrating a greater enforcement in driver responsibility.
Increased Severity of Punishments in Regards to Mobile Phone Distraction
The 2025 rule changes are inclusive of every Australian state and territory; this way, penalties can be streamlined throughout the country. It is unlawful to use, touch or even hold a mobile phone while driving a vehicle; this includes waiting in a vehicle at a traffic light. Surveillance camera systems, including the most ‘ordinary’ surveillance systems and ‘DIY’ surveillance systems in most states and territories of Australia, use AI to detect these driving offenses and passive vehicle holding offenses. Losing a driving license is a likely scenario for repeat driving offenses with excessive demerit points. This is the new reality for distracted drivers, who seem to have little regard for the safety of road users, be it pedestrians or other motorists.
What is “Using” Your Phone
The new law casts a wider net on what constitutes “using” a phone. It encompasses scrolling through social media, texting, making or receiving calls (unless hands-free), and managing navigation apps not placed in an approved cradle. Keeping the phone on your lap or checking messages on a smartwatch also constitutes an offense.
Exceptions and Safety Provisions
However, learner drivers and P1 provisional drivers cannot use any mobile features, including hands-free. Emergency situations – such as unsafe triple zero (000) calls when it cannot be avoided to stop – are also exempt from penalties.
Detection Cameras and Enforcement
Mobile detection cameras enforce this law with remarkable efficiency. These state-of-the-art cameras are set along highways and urban roads and can easily pinpoint and take images of motorists who are on their phones. They use Infrared sensors which are able to monitor phone use by drivers during the day and night. Early trial data indicates a drastic reduction in handheld phone use in the areas where the cameras are located, validating the claim that the cameras are a deterrent.
Impact on Road Safety
The authorities are under the impression that the tougher fines and stricter enforcement will substantially decrease crashes that are a consequence of distracted driving. Studies have shown that phone related distractions can increase the likelihood of an accident by four times, especially with younger drivers. With fatalities on the rise, the Government is focused on the enforcement of penalties to promote safer driving. Road safety advocates are also launching campaigns to reach drivers with these messages and promote responsible road use.
Short Data Table
| Offence Type | Fine Amount | Demerit Points | Applies To All States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Using mobile while driving | $550 | 4 | Yes |
FAQs
Q1. Can I use my phone at red lights?
No. Touching, holding, or using your phone in traffic is considered driving and will attract the same fine.
Q2. Are hands-free calls allowed?
Yes, provided the driver is fully licensed, the phone must be hands-free, and mounted and operated without touching it during the call.
Q3. What if I’m using GPS on my phone?
That’s legal only if your phone is secured in a cradle and set before you start driving.
