In Australia, applying makeup while driving in 2025 isn’t specifically illegal, but it can lead to serious consequences if it impedes the driver’s ability to maintain control of the vehicle. The main point is that all law enforcement is concerned about distracted driving. Irrespective of the cause, the penalties for inattentive driving are universally severe across all states.
Grooming While Driving
In 2025, Australian driving laws do not use the word “makeup” in the context of driving offenses. However, a driver can still face fines if activities related to personal grooming, such as applying makeup, cause a distraction or loss of vehicle control. These fines and penalties are usually categorized as “catch-all” offences with penalties for the driver’s negligence, such as “driving without due care and attention” or “negligent driving.”
Consequences of Driving while Distracted
Consequences of Driving While Distracted While each state has individual laws, penalties, and fines, a general pattern across the country is harsher penalties for distracted driving. For example, in New South Wales, motorists who are distracted faces penalties of a $3,300 fine and possible imprisonment for severe negligence. In Queensland and Victoria, distracted drivers who are putting on makeup lose attention for a few seconds and incur fines of a few hundred dollars and demerit points. In South Australia, a driver who is caught without proper control over a vehicle faces a fine of $221 and in Western Australia, a driver faces a fine of $300 and demerit points.
Why Police Target Distractions
Distraction Driving Police have the authority to stop and ticket drivers for distracting behaviors. This includes drivers who are eating, drinking, or doing personal grooming. In cases of a driver distracting themselves and stating that the act occurred at a red light, the driver can still t be cited if the officer feels the driver showed a level of inattention and care that is reckless.
New Technologies and Tougher Enforcement
While the cameras are meant to catch phone violations, the police attention encompasses any distracting activity, even makeup, so there is risk.
Public Awareness and Road Safety
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to road accidents and is responsible for approximately 16% of road fatalities in Australia. Road safety campaigns consistently warn that the use of a phone or other multitasking including makeup is dangerous and carries serious penalties.
Form Data Table
| State/Territory | Example Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points | Offence Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | up to $3,300 | Yes | Negligent/driving w/o attention |
| QLD | $645 | 3 | Driving w/o care |
| SA | $221 | No | Not in proper control |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is putting on makeup at a red light allowed?
No. Even if the light is red, a driver may still be distracted and fined.
Q2: Are AI cameras used to fine makeup application?
No. As of 2025, AI cameras are focused on mobile phone and seatbelt offenses, but police can issue fines for any form of distraction.
Q3: Does every state have the same penalty?
No, all states fined distracted driving but penalties, including fines and demerit points, vary per state.
