Australia is known for having very strict traffic laws. Fines associated with breaches of traffic lights are especially strict. Drivers looking at a red traffic light and not crossing an intersection are still in a position to be fined $415. This is largely to try and improve driving discipline which will ultimately save lives and reduce serious injuries related to car accidents that occur in intersections.
It is essential that all traffic signals are complied with to ensure a smooth and coordinated flow of traffic. This is especially important in situations where traffic is congested as unpredictable driving behavior can lead to serious accidents.
Rules Regarding traffic light intersections
Road rules in Australia clearly state that every motorist is to stop at the traffic light and before a stop line. This leads to many believing that borderline stopping and not hitting an intersection is legal. True, motorists can be charged with a red light driving offence if they move beyond a stop line and stop. This is stipulated in rule 56 of the Australian Road rules, stopping be the line is simply not enough.
The subtle distinction can be puzzling. Red light cameras are set up to detect when vehicles cross or slowly creep past the stop line when the light is showing red, triggering an automatic fine.
Purpose Behind the Tightened Enforcement
The rigid stance is driven mostly by an attempt to reduce the prevalence of road deaths and injuries. Serious collisions may happen in a fraction of a second and road intersections are one of the most dangerous parts of the road network. $415 is a strong enough fine which encourages most drivers to exercise patience and avoid risky behavior.
The measure is also aimed at inequity. The safety of other drivers and pedestrians is compromised when some drivers attempt to ‘beat the light’ and then push forward and stop in the intersection.
What the Fine Includes
The red light infringement notice is a letter explaining the details of the offence, for example the time and location, and photographs of the vehicle. On top of the fine, which is $415, three demerit points are allocated. More serious offences have longer detention periods and these are cumulative actions. Driving fines are consistent across the country although they differ in amounts in each state or territory, such as New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
Avoiding Red Light Offenses
Taking an extra moment to have a look at all the variables at an intersection can save a driver lots of trouble and money. Slowing down as the intersection light transitions to amber, and allowing extra space before the stop line, and attention to the lights will all help avoid an offense. So will avoiding distractions – even a small lapse can make a car move forward.
If a driver is issued a fine, most state transport authorities will allow for a review or an appeal of the fine, especially if the driver feels the infringement fine is unjust. Just be sure to bring the proper supporting documentation to make your case.
Data Snapshot
| Offence Type | Penalty (AUD) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Red light violation (no crossing) | $415 | 3 |
Common Queries
Q1. What if my front wheels cross the line, but I stop right away? Will I get a fine?
Yes. Your vehicle crosses the stop line at any time after the light turns red, and this is a violation.
Q2. Are the fines the same for all states?
Not quite. Every state does have red light penalties, but the fine and demerit points may vary slightly.
Q3. I got a fine for running a red light. Can I dispute this?
Yes, as long as you have the evidence to show the fault is on the infringement, like a malfunctioning camera or improper timing.
