In 2025, tougher penalties were rolled out in Australia for distracted driving, even things like sipping on a coffee while driving. Authorities look at any diversion from the road – even for a second – as a potential accident risk. Drivers who eat, drink, or use a mobile device while driving will be fined and lose demerit points, assessed on a case by case basis and in accordance with the state or territory laws.
The Rising Cost of Distraction
The practice of dismissing the distraction implications of coffee or snack driven multitasking on the road is a thing of the past. In 2025, that leniency has ended. For instance, in New South Wales, penalties can reach AUD 500–600 plus three to five demerit points if the driving distraction involves auxiliary road use. In Victoria and Queensland, similar fines apply when a driver is seen not maintaining full control of their vehicle. Authorities state that driver distraction is a contributing factor to 15% of serious annual road injuries.
Reason for Authority Crackdowns
Research indicates that divided attention significantly increases the probability of an accident occurring. A driver taking a hand off the wheel to grab a sip of coffee for even just two seconds can travel beyond 50 meters at highway speeds with no full control. This is the reasoning behind the belief that small distractions can pose severe risks, especially in dense urban environments. New laws, therefore, regard multitasking while driving as a hazard to public safety, with little regard for the personal safety of the driver.
Public Reaction and Industry Counter
New legal guidelines have been deemed a little excessive by a good number of Australian motorists. The rule has been branded as “over-policed” on social media with the argument that responsible drivers should be allowed to partake in a drink while stopped at a traffic signal. This rule is supported by road safety experts, insurance companies, and driving instructors alike, who have been updating their instructional practices to reflect the need for “hands-on-wheel and eyes-on-road” at all times. The reason for their attention is that road safety, especially with minimal distractions, is a crucial and widely accepted truth.
Legal and Financial Consequences
The more serious consequence with the new laws is not just the cost, but the accumulation of demerit points. Offenders repeatedly risk losing their licenses and suspension. Some states are stating the off reason defended distracted drivers that caused an accidents would fall under dangerous driving laws where fines would exceed AUD 3,000 and jail time would be possible. If an accident occurs and distraction is proven the insurance claim would be voided.
| Offence Type | Fine (Approx.) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking coffee while driving | AUD 500–600 | 3–5 |
| Eating or applying makeup | AUD 600+ | 3–5 |
| Using mobile device | AUD 1,000 | 5–6 |
Staying Safe on the Road
Road authorities suggest that there are possible actions drivers can take to help prevent the need to stop. For instance, eating and drinking something before a trip, taking rest breaks for coffee, and using travel mugs that close securely for long trips to prevent spills. More signs to remind drivers of the importance of taking breaks during the trip are being used by coffee service stations and rest stops. Road safety should not be compromised for a coffee.
FAQs
Q1. Can I drink coffee while parked at a red light?
Yes, but it is risky and could be a distraction when the light changes. Police can still fine drivers not fully in control.
Q2. Are passengers allowed to eat or drink?
The rules focus on the driver’s control of the vehicle, not the actions of other people, so passengers are exempt.
Q3. Will the fines differ between states?
Yes. Each Australia state and territory has its own system of traffic penalties, even though every state uses the same strict legislation concerning distracted driving.
