Introduction
Drivers in Australia will be subject to important changes on and after July 1, 2025, regarding traffic fines and penalties, cutting across various states. These changes are implemented with a view to improving road safety and promoting compliance with traffic laws.
Increased Penalty Rates in Queensland
Queensland will raise fines for driving behaviours across all states by an amount being 3.5 %. For example, using a mobile phone while driving will go from something like $1,208 to about $1,250. In similar fashion, speeding, seatbelt, and traffic signal offences will see a corresponding increase in fines. The state Treasurer further confirmed that this change was in line with the default penalties unit rate for offences detailed in the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 .
The Deployment of Average Speed Cameras in New South Wales
In New South Wales, average speed cameras are being trialled for use on other vehicles apart from heavy ones. Beginning May 1, 2025, the initiative hopes to address speeding and associated accidents. During the first stage of the trial period, drivers caught speeding up to 30 km/h will receive warnings but not fines. Offences detected by these cameras will attract fines and demerit points from July 1, 2025.
Revised Speed Limit Reductions Across Australia
Several Australian states are undergoing a review of the speed limits, seeking to provide improved safety. The focus of these changes is to tighten speed constraints wherever pedestrian activity is considered high, i.e. school zones or community hubs. This forces the drivers to be updated regarding such local changes in speed limits to avoid penalties.
