A new penalty of $961 will become enforceable from July 2025 on Australian drivers who breach certain road rules, as part of the government crackdown on perilous driving behaviour. Being one of the highest single penalties for a traffic offence recently developed, the updated fine is a conscious effort to create a safer environment for the driving public by minimising accident risks, particularly within high-risk areas.
What the $961 Fine Is Targeting
This infringement fine will pit offenders of the usage of mobile phones against it. Under the new laws, these heavy penalties will be imposed on any driver caught with a mobile phone in hand or using it behind the wheels, even at the stop lights! Authorities have warned that even touching the phone without an approved hands-free kit would still be an offence. Since distractions have become the root cause of many road accidents, the law seeks to give a very strong preventative message.
States Applying the New Fine
Road rules are regulated on a state level; however, it is expected that jurisdictions such as New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria will enforce the new $961 fine. On the other hand, some states might impose demerit points to complement the financial fine, thus increasing the expense for a repeat offender. These fines shall govern the private motorist, rideshare driver, and holders of an open license alike so as to make sure the enforcement is unbiased.
Why the Fine Is So Much
The government explains that this huge figure represents the seriousness of an offence of distracted driving. Research reveals that using a phone while driving makes a driver’s reaction times as impaired as those who are driving under the influence. The near $1,000 fine will hopefully show enough discouragement to make most drivers go handsfree or lock their phones away from view before commuting.
What Drivers Should Do to Stay Safe
In order to stay away from being penalised, they should set their GPS or music prior to starting the car, using a legal hands-free method whilst in motion. Mounting phones on dashboards or Bluetooth connectivities are legal ways of phone usage, but touching the screen during driving is banned. Some drivers even use the “Do Not Disturb” feature to help eliminate distractions completely for peace of mind.
Beginning Enforcement on the 1st of July
Enforcement for the new penalty will begin from the 1st of July, 2025, amidst increased police radar, and extended use of mobile phone detection cameras. During the transition window, drivers caught would not be given any warnings—just straight-up penalty notices. All drivers in Australia are urged to brush up on these new road rules and get themselves across so that they will not fall foul of the new law ahead of its operative date.