Australian officials have announced a new law starting in 2025 which will impose a $579 fine for the unlawful use of a mobile phone while driving. This new law is part of a bigger attempt in the country to reduce the number of road-related incidents attributable to distracted driving. It establishes a firm deterrent for motorists in every state and territory.
New law overview
Starting September 2025, motorists will be prohibited from holding, touching, or handling a mobile phone while behind the wheel. This means drivers will be fined $579 regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion or stationary at traffic lights. This new legislation will target the activities of texting, browsing, and making calls without a hands-free device as well as the unlawful use of navigation apps that are not secured in a legal cradle.
Justification for the law update
With a rise in road accidents attributable to mobile phone use, the decision to update the laws must have come from lawmakers. Although there were lower fines in the past the laws did not curb the rise of distracted driving especially in younger and repeat offenders. Increasing the financial penalty and impacting the offenders driving license is an attempt to encourage road safety for all drivers.
New Penalty System
The $579 penalty will apply most broadly under the new system but can still increase for aggravated offenses. Fines and demerit points increase for repeated violations and violations in enforcement-sensitive areas like schools. Likewise, demerit points and fines increase for repeated offenses. The law applies to active phone manipulation, that is, the use of a phone while the vehicle is in motion and even when the vehicle is stopped or in a traffic light queue.
Driver Key Facts
In many Australian states, AI-automated cameras are used to actively detect illegal phone use while driving. Due to demerit points, repeat offenders are at risk of losing their driver’s license. The only legally accepted phone use while driving is through a hands-free and secured system.
Legal and Public Impact
At $579, Australia joins the highest enforcement level and is expected to increase motivation for compliance. Legal practitioners in the field, and road safety advocates agree the penalty will motivate compliance and that it is severe. Advocates note the penalty is still a proportional reflection of the value of the road safety of all road users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can a driver touch their phone at traffic lights?
No, under the new law, phone manipulation is illegal even when the vehicle is stationary or stopped at red lights.
Q2. Are hands-free devices allowed?
Sure, if it’s just for a call and the phone’s in the appropriate holder as approved. Texting and browsing is a no-go.
Q3. What happens after multiple offenses?
Higher fines and more demerit points given to repeat offenders. Within a year, possibly a suspension of the license to drive.
