To minimize distraction-related fatal and serious injury crashes, Australian road safety authorities have adopted new, more stringent mobile phone and GPS use laws for drivers. Starting in 2025, drivers who use their mobile phones in any capacity, including GPS, will be penalized. This includes stops at traffic lights, stuck in traffic, and cruising down a highway. Fines up to $450 and 4 demerit points will be issued to drivers who use mobile phones while driving. The objective is to safely and responsibly use mobile technology while driving as well as safely disengage from the driving task.
What the Law Now Says
As per the legislation, drivers can use mobile navigation apps and systems as long as they are using a hands-free or voice-activated system. Drivers can use GPS navigation, provided that your phone is fastened in a cradle and mounted, or your vehicle’s infotainment system is connected. Any phone use while driving is illegal; for example, drivers may not zoom in on a map, locate a destination, or scroll to any extent. Even the most minor of taps will be subject to fines, as AI powered highway cameras will track driver hand movements and phone use.
| Allowed Use | Prohibited Use |
|---|---|
| Voice-activated commands | Holding or touching the phone |
| Mounted GPS screen | Phone on lap or seat |
| Car-integrated display | Typing or tapping while driving |
How to Use Voice GPS Navigation Safely
Before driving, plan your route in advance. During the trip, focus on listening to the GPS audio instructions. Voice-controlled smart assistants, such as Google Assistant, Apple Siri, or Samsung Bixby, help you navigate without touching your device. Saying, “Hey Google, navigate to Sydney Airport” to Google Assistant engages the voice-first option which keeps your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. This hands-free approach aligns with legal requirements and offers the safest option to travelers.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Fines
Small mistakes can cause drivers to break the rules. It is illegal to have a phone in your lap, even if you are not using it. Also, changing the destination on your GPS when you are already driving is mobile phone use and is illegal. Some people think that hands-free means they can still press or swipe the phone and that resting it in a cradle is legal which is untrue. To avoid risking a fine, always use the voice command and dashboard control.
Benefits of Following the Law
Aside from not having to pay fines, complying with the voice GPS law decreases driver distraction and improves road safety. Police data indicates that distractions from mobile phones cause hundreds of crashes each year. The new regulations are also consistent with Australia’s broader “Vision Zero” goal, aiming for no deaths or serious injuries on the road by 2050. The use of hands-free technology will ensure that you meet the regulations and will also provide safety while driving on Australia’s long routes.
Tips to Stay Compliant
- Always mount your phone on a holder before starting the car.
- Use voice commands to start the GPS and select your navigation.
- Do not touch the screen once the car starts moving.
- Do not listen to the navigation instructions.
- Check regularly to see if state road authorities have made any new road laws.
Final Thoughts
As more technology is incorporated into driving, responsible use of these tools is more important than ever. The $450 Australian fine for mismanaged GPS and the illegal use of mobile phones while driving shows that the risk of GPS and mobile use is not worth the convenience. The use of voice navigation and hands-free technology provide compliance with the new 2025 laws and will ensure safer roads for all.
FAQs
Q1. Is it allowed to hold my phone when at a traffic light?
It is not. Even when you are not moving, it is illegal to touch or hold your phone, unless you are parked and your engine is off.
Q2. Is it legal to have a very brief look at my mounted GPS screen?
Yes, very brief glances are accepted, but any touch or input is illegal while driving.
Q3. Do any Australian states apply different rules?
No. All states have to comply with the national mobile-use standard. However, local enforcement may have variations.
