The National Transport Commission (NTC) will implement countrywide traffic law reforms that will commence in October 2025 to enhance road safety in Australia. The characteristics of these reforms include higher fines, tougher penalties on later offenders, zero-tolerance towards drink-driving, and more particularly towards mobile phone use and speeding. Government is interested in the reduction of accidents, greater safety of pedestrians and bicycle riders, and the normalisation of fines in all states and regions.
Important Changes in the Law of Traffic and Punishments
– Drink-driving fines rise to between $1,100 to 2,500 fines with suspensions of the license doubled to 12 months; compulsory alcohol lock devices on convicted drivers.
– Fines also almost doubled- e.g. over 20 km/h Over speeding fines are increased by about 6 demerit points to $900 and fines increased by 2- folds during holidays.
– The imposition of fines on mobile phone use when driving increases to between $550 and 1,200 with six demerit points; a second time violation results in three-month suspensions.
– Fines of reckless driving are increased by half to $3,500 with 12-month suspensions and the possible impoundment of vehicles in cases of repeat offenses.
The aim of these changes is to discourage unsafe road uses and safeguard the vulnerable road users by enhancing enforcement and penalties.
Road Safety and Impact on Drivers
The reforms are going to force the motorists to change their habits drastically, since fines on usual offences will increase significantly in the country. The police will be given more powers to impose on the spot license suspension, especially the zero-tolerance drink-driving approach. The uniform penalties throughout states help to ensure fairness and clarity that could help achieve the national road safety objectives.
| Offense | Current Penalty | New Penalty (From Oct 2025) | Additional Measures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drink Driving | $1,100 + 6 months suspension | $2,500 + 12 months suspension | Mandatory alcohol interlock |
| Speeding (20+ km/h) | $450 + 4 demerit points | $900 + 6 demerit points | Double fines on holidays |
| Mobile Phone Use | $550 + 5 demerit points | $1,200 + 6 demerit points | Possible 3-month suspension |
| Reckless Driving | $2,000 + 6 months suspension | $3,500 + 12 months suspension | Vehicle impound for repeat offenders |
FAQs
Q1: What is the time of implementations of new traffic laws?
They begin in October of 2025 throughout the country.
Q2: Are the fines going to be uniform in Australia?
No, there will be no harmonisation of the fines and penalties.
Q3: What does happen to repeat offenders?
They get heftier fines, extended suspensions and impoundment of their vehicles.