As of May 2025, the New Driving Laws in Australia 2025 have officially come into effect across most states and territories, bringing significant changes aimed at improving road safety and reducing distracted driving incidents. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just got your license, understanding these new regulations is crucial to avoiding hefty fines and demerit points.
Stricter Rules on Mobile Usage While Driving
The most discussed update is the nationwide crackdown on mobile usage behind the wheel. Under the 2025 reforms, using a handheld phone while driving now results in an immediate $800 fine and five demerit points, a substantial increase from previous penalties. Even interacting with mounted devices without voice control is penalized.
Drivers caught touching their phones at red lights or in slow traffic will no longer be given leeway. Dashcam and road patrol footage are now admissible as direct evidence in these cases.
Demerit Points Threshold and Suspension Periods
Changes to the demerit points system now mean shorter tolerance windows. In several jurisdictions, accumulating 10 or more points within 12 months leads to a minimum three-month license suspension, down from 13 points previously.
Learner and P-plate drivers face even tighter thresholds. For example, provisional drivers in New South Wales who rack up five points (previously seven) can lose their license. Authorities hope this will curb reckless behavior among younger drivers.
Updated Fines for Common Offenses
Alongside mobile phone penalties, numerous common driving offenses have seen fines increased in 2025. Here’s a snapshot of the updated costs:
| Offense | Previous Fine (2024) | New Fine (2025) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handheld phone use | $500 | $800 | 5 |
| Speeding (10-20 km/h over) | $250 | $325 | 3 |
| Not wearing seatbelt | $300 | $450 | 4 |
| Running red light | $400 | $520 | 4 |
| Illegal U-turn | $180 | $250 | 2 |
These changes are now active in most states, with full national rollout expected by July 2025.
New Driver Assist Tech Laws
With modern vehicles integrating advanced driver-assist features, new laws now mandate that these technologies must not encourage hands-off or inattentive driving. Tesla’s Autopilot and similar systems must keep drivers engaged, and any misuse (e.g., sleeping or not touching the wheel) will attract fines starting from $1,200 and immediate suspension under high-risk behavior rules.
Commercial drivers using fleet-management software are also required to ensure their systems are compliant with the Transport Safety Tech Code 2025, recently issued by the National Transport Commission.
Enhanced Enforcement and Surveillance
Police and transport departments are now equipped with AI-based roadside monitoring tools that can automatically detect seatbelt violations, phone use, and erratic driving. These cameras are already active in Victoria, Queensland, and parts of South Australia.
Additionally, mobile detection units will be deployed during high-traffic periods such as public holidays and school terms. Enforcement efforts are being intensified particularly around schools, construction zones, and known accident hotspots.
Final Thoughts: Stay Aware, Stay Safe
The New Driving Laws in Australia 2025 represent a sharp pivot toward stricter accountability and safety. With harsher fines, lower demerit point thresholds, and evolving tech regulations, the message is clear: distraction and complacency won’t be tolerated.
Staying up-to-date with these changes is not only about avoiding penalties but protecting lives—yours and others on the road.
FAQs About New Driving Laws in Australia 2025
What is the fine for using a phone while driving in 2025?
From May 2025, the penalty is $800 and 5 demerit points in most states.
How many demerit points can I accumulate before suspension?
In most cases, 10 points in a 12-month period will now trigger a suspension.
Are the new rules the same in every state?
Not exactly. While most laws are nationally aligned, specific fines and enforcement dates may vary slightly by state.
Can I use my phone at red lights?
No. Touching or interacting with your phone while stationary at red lights is now an offense.
What if my car has driver-assist features?
You must remain alert and in control. Misuse of autonomous features can lead to major fines and license suspension.
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