New Nationwide Traffic Fines – Starting June 2025, Australian drivers are in for a major regulatory overhaul with strict new traffic laws being implemented across all states and territories. These changes include significant increases in traffic fines, the introduction of zero-tolerance policies for DUI offences, and the introduction of harsher penalties for repeat violations. The nationwide initiative is designed to improve road safety, reduce traffic-related deaths, and create uniformity in penalty enforcement.
New Traffic Fine System Introduced Nationwide
As part of the June 2025 traffic reform, all Australian states will now follow a standardized fine and penalty system. This will eliminate discrepancies between regions and simplify enforcement. The focus will be on high-risk behaviors such as speeding, drunk driving, phone usage while driving, and driving without valid registration or insurance.
- Uniform fine rates across all states
- Zero-tolerance for alcohol and drug-related driving offences
- New electronic tracking for unpaid fines
- Enforcement via automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras
- Demerit point accumulation to be streamlined
- Penalties for minor violations also revised upwards
Key Traffic Offences and Their New Penalties (Effective June 1, 2025)
| Offence | Old Fine (AUD) | New Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points | Suspension Trigger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (10–20 km/h over) | 275 | 400 | 3 | 12 Points |
| DUI (first offence) | 850 | 1,500 | 6 | Immediate |
| Using Mobile Phone While Driving | 500 | 750 | 5 | 10 Points |
| Running Red Light | 450 | 700 | 3 | 12 Points |
| Driving Without Valid Licence | 800 | 1,200 | 5 | 12 Points |
| Not Wearing Seatbelt | 375 | 600 | 4 | 10 Points |
| Unregistered Vehicle | 650 | 1,100 | 4 | 10 Points |
| Insurance Lapse (Driving Uninsured) | 550 | 950 | 4 | 12 Points |
Zero-Tolerance DUI Rules – What This Means
The government has announced a strict zero-tolerance approach to driving under the influence (DUI) from June 2025. This means that even a small amount of alcohol or drugs detected in a driver’s system will lead to immediate legal consequences.
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit reduced to 0.00% for new drivers
- Random roadside drug and alcohol testing to increase
- First-time offenders will face instant licence suspension
- Repeat offenders could face vehicle impoundment and jail time
- Alcohol interlock devices may be mandated for re-offenders
Driving Record Impact and Licence Suspension Process
The new rules also affect how demerit points accumulate and trigger licence suspensions. Here’s what drivers need to know:
- Accumulating 12 or more points within 3 years will result in automatic suspension
- Learner and probationary drivers will face tougher limits (5 points max)
- Suspension durations range from 3 to 12 months, depending on offence severity
- Affected drivers must complete a mandatory safety awareness course
How to Pay New Fines and Check Demerit Points
To manage the new fines system more efficiently, the government has provided centralized access points for payments and point checks.
- Fines can be paid via www.serviceaustralia.gov.au/payfine
- Use your Driver Licence Number to check points and fines
- Install the Service Australia App to receive fine alerts and deadlines
- Payments can be made through credit/debit card, BPAY, or bank transfer
- Delayed payments will incur additional late fees
Public and Government Response
These changes have sparked a mix of approval and criticism from the public and driving associations:
- Road safety groups applaud the new rules, citing rising accident rates
- Some argue that increased fines could disproportionately affect low-income drivers
- State premiers have jointly signed a traffic safety pledge to back the new rules
Departments Responsible and How to Reach Out
If you have queries or need to appeal a traffic fine, contact the relevant department below:
FAQs – New Nationwide Traffic Fines
Q1: Do these new rules apply in all states?
Yes, the rules will be applied uniformly across all Australian states and territories starting June 1, 2025.
Q2: Will first-time DUI offenders go to jail?
Not necessarily, but they will face immediate licence suspension and higher fines. Repeat offenders may face jail time.
Q3: How do I know if I’ve reached the suspension limit?
You can check your demerit points online via www.serviceaustralia.gov.au/checkpoints
Q4: Can I appeal a fine or penalty?
Yes, all penalties can be appealed through the Traffic Infringement Appeals Tribunal.
Q5: Are mobile phone penalties the same across all devices (Bluetooth vs handheld)?
Yes, the penalty applies to any non-hands-free usage while driving.
Q6: Will this impact Uber, delivery, and taxi drivers?
Yes, commercial drivers are also subject to the same penalties and monitoring.
Conclusion – New Nationwide Traffic Fines
The June 2025 national road law reforms represent one of the most comprehensive changes in Australian traffic regulation history. While the increased fines and zero-tolerance DUI rules may appear harsh, the government’s intention is to significantly reduce road fatalities and ensure consistent safety standards. Drivers are advised to review the new rules carefully, adapt their driving habits, and settle any outstanding fines to avoid harsher penalties in the future.