Australia Nationwide Traffic Fines – From June 2025, Australian drivers will face one of the most extensive crackdowns on road safety violations in recent years. A new set of nationwide traffic regulations has been rolled out, introducing harsher fines, zero-tolerance enforcement, and strict point-based penalties. The move comes after an alarming rise in road accidents and reckless driving incidents across the country.
These new traffic laws are designed to improve road discipline, reduce fatalities, and unify rules across all states and territories. If you drive in Australia, you need to understand the new rules to avoid massive penalties, vehicle impoundment, or even license suspension.
Why the Australia Nationwide Traffic Fines Are Being Implemented
- In 2024, road fatalities increased by over 12%, prompting urgent government action.
- Inconsistent traffic rules across states led to confusion and poor compliance.
- Public demand for safer roads surged after several high-profile accidents.
- The government aims to cut road deaths by 30% by 2026.
Key Changes in the New June 2025 Traffic Law Overhaul
- Zero-tolerance for mobile phone use – no warnings, instant fines.
- Harsher penalties for speeding, especially in school and construction zones.
- Nationwide standardisation of demerit point system.
- New breath-testing limits with roadside checks intensified.
- Increased fines for not wearing seatbelts or running red lights.
- Introduction of AI-powered speed and behaviour cameras in all major cities.
- Enhanced rules for P-plate and L-plate drivers with stricter supervision norms.
Full Table of New Fines Effective June 2025
| Offence | Old Fine | New Fine (From June 2025) | Demerit Points | Additional Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Using phone while driving | $496 | $850 | 5 | Immediate license suspension |
| Speeding (20-30 km/h over limit) | $489 | $720 | 4 | On-the-spot vehicle impound |
| Running a red light | $481 | $950 | 6 | Dashcam footage automatically filed |
| No seatbelt | $298 | $660 | 4 | Mandatory road safety course |
| Drink driving (first offence) | $1,100 | $1,800 | 6 | 6-month license suspension |
| Drug driving | $1,580 | $2,400 | 8 | Court appearance mandatory |
| P-plater driving past curfew | $300 | $500 | 3 | 30-day license hold |
| Unregistered vehicle on road | $704 | $1,200 | 5 | Car impounded for 14 days |
State-wise Fine Adjustment and Camera Rollout
| State/Territory | Additional State-Based Fines | AI Camera Activation Date | Special Rules for Learners/P-Platers |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $1,050 for aggressive driving | 1 June 2025 | No night driving without supervision |
| Victoria | $990 for lane hogging | 3 June 2025 | Max 2 peer passengers after 10 PM |
| Queensland | $1,200 for tailgating | 5 June 2025 | Curfew from 11 PM to 5 AM |
| Western Australia | $875 for failure to signal | 7 June 2025 | No high-performance vehicles |
| South Australia | $950 for stop sign violation | 9 June 2025 | Mandatory GPS tracking on learners |
| Tasmania | $820 for overtake violations | 10 June 2025 | Enhanced breath testing frequency |
| ACT | $780 for aggressive U-turns | 12 June 2025 | 12-month provisional period |
| Northern Territory | $1,100 for burnout offences | 14 June 2025 | Police interview after every offence |
Public Reaction and Government Justification
The reforms have received mixed reactions:
- Road safety advocates have welcomed the changes.
- Drivers’ unions have criticized the sudden spike in penalties.
- Government officials argue that lives are more important than leniency.
According to the Department of Infrastructure, more than 80% of current road deaths are preventable, and these reforms target the top contributing behaviours.
Zero-Tolerance Policies Explained
- No warning notices – Every violation immediately leads to a fine.
- Repeat offences double the penalty within a 12-month window.
- Police and smart cameras now share real-time data for instant fines.
How to Avoid These Fines
- Always use hands-free devices if you must attend a call.
- Stick to designated speed limits, especially near schools or zones with warning signs.
- Keep your vehicle registered and insured.
- If you’re a new driver, follow your license restrictions strictly.
- Avoid late-night drives, especially for P-platers.
Government Department Contact for Traffic Law Queries
FAQs – Australia Nationwide Traffic Fines
Q1: Will the new fines apply to tourists and international drivers?
Yes. All drivers on Australian roads must comply with national laws, regardless of license origin.
Q2: Can I contest a fine issued by AI cameras?
Yes, you can lodge a dispute through state-based transport departments within 28 days.
Q3: Will these laws be enforced in remote or rural areas?
Yes, all areas fall under the new uniform law, with enforcement adapted to local resources.
Q4: What happens if I accumulate more than 12 demerit points?
Your license will be suspended for a minimum of 3 months, with no option to appeal in the first offence.
Q5: Are these fines deductible or covered under insurance?
No. Traffic fines are not claimable under any vehicle insurance policy.
Conclusion of Australia Nationwide Traffic Fines
Australia’s new June 2025 traffic law reform is a landmark move towards safer roads and stricter enforcement. While it brings a tough stance on irresponsible driving, it reflects the country’s commitment to reducing accidents and fatalities. Drivers are urged to stay updated, drive responsibly, and avoid the heavy penalties that now accompany every violation.