Australia’s updated road regulations: Key changes every motorist should follow. The key changes in Australia’s road regulations will be updated from June 2025. It will reshape how drivers navigate the roads across all states and territories. The road rules will be aimed at enhancing safety, reducing emissions, and aligning with emerging vehicle technologies. The changes also include updates to electric vehicle parking regulations and child restraint laws. To know more about the topic “Australia’s updated road regulations: Key changes every motorist should follow,” read the complete article.
Australia’s Updated Road Regulations
The Australian Road Rules (ARR) are a national body of laws governing the use of roads, foothpaths and other shared spaces by drivers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians. There are over 350 rules that have been in effect since December 1999. The implementation of the rules is constantly monitored and modifications take into account changes in road safety policy, driver behaviour and technology. Most changes to the rules are simple explanations that enhance their interpretation and/or operation. Other changes to road laws are made through changing SA’s local law—the Road Traffic Act and the Road Rules (Ancillary and Miscellaneous) Regulations.
The road rules of Australia form a foundation of road rules of each Australian state and territory. For the most part, each state and territory has incorporated the Rules into their own laws; however, not every provision of the Rules has been incorporated exactly in each state and territory. Also, there are numerous provisions in the Rules that specifically leave specific matters to state and territory governments to decide.
Key Changes Every Motorist Should Follow
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Certain offenses fall under a strict zero-tolerance policy. These include:
Drink and Drug Driving: The law across Australian states and territories defines offenses for drug driving and allows for roadside drug testing to enforce the zero-tolerance policy in Australia.
Mobile Phone Use: Using a mobile phone while driving has always been risky, but starting June 1, 2025, Australia is taking serious measures. The use of mobile phones for calling, texting, or using apps while driving is restricted.
Seat Belt Usage: It is mandatory to use a seat belt while driving. The old fine was $350 and the new fine is $600. There might be a possible court action for repeat offenses.
Refusing Breath or Drug Tests: If a person refuses a breath or drug test, then he/she shall be liable for this offense and will have to pay the penalty.
Aggressive Driving: Aggressive driving, such as road rage and tailgating, is also included in the zero-tolerance policy of Australia.
Increased Enforcement and Technology
Speed Cameras: During peak times, police will also increase mobile patrols and set up AI-powered radar traps and speed cameras. These tools will help ensure that speeding violations are continuously detected, minimizing the likelihood of accidents in sensitive areas.
Immediate Vehicle Impoundment: If the mistakes or crimes are repeated again, then a fine will be placed and it will result in vehicle impoundment. For first-time hooning, the vehicle impoundment will be for 30 days.
Unified Demerit Point System
If you engage in a traffic offense anywhere in Australia, demerit points may be assigned and recorded on your traffic history. All of your infractions pertaining to traffic laws, as well as any instances of drunk driving, drugged driving, reckless driving, or vehicle registration violations, are documented in your traffic history. Demerit points begin from the date you engage in an offense and are recorded once you have either settled the fine or been dealt with by a court.
Roundabout Rules
There are many rules about driving in a roundabout in Australia. Now, you have to indicate if you’re going straight in the roundabout. A driver entering a roundabout must give way to any vehicle in the roundabout.
Funeral Processions
A driver must not interfere with, or interrupt, the free passage along any length of road of any funeral procession or any vehicle or person apparently forming part of the procession.
Child Restraints
Every passenger in a motor vehicle is required to wear a seat belt, booster seat, or child restraint that is securely fastened and adjusted. The drivers are liable for ensuring that all passengers are wearing seat belts or child restraints correctly. The penalties if there is an offense can be fines and demerit points for the driver. The passengers will also be liable for a fine if they are 16 years old or more.
