New Aussie Road Rules – From June 2025, provisional drivers across Australia — commonly known as P-Platers — will face major regulatory changes. The federal and state road authorities are tightening driving rules in a bid to reduce road accidents involving new drivers. Key changes include higher fines, stricter phone usage regulations, and quicker licence suspension thresholds. The new road laws aim to enforce better road behaviour and increase road safety, especially for younger or inexperienced drivers.
Why New Aussie Road Rules Are Being Introduced
With increasing numbers of road accidents involving P-Plate drivers, authorities are taking firm steps. Statistics reveal that distracted driving, particularly mobile phone use, along with speeding, are leading causes of crashes in this group.
Key Reasons Behind the Crackdown:
- High accident rates involving provisional licence holders
- Rise in phone-related road violations
- Speeding among new drivers still a significant concern
- Calls from the public and road safety groups for stricter deterrents
Major Rule Changes Effective from June 2025
The new regulations, effective from June 1, 2025, apply to all drivers with a provisional licence across all Australian states and territories. These changes include:
- Fines for mobile phone use will double
- Speeding over 10km/h will result in immediate fines and points
- Accumulating 4 demerit points may lead to immediate licence suspension
- Zero-tolerance on alcohol and drugs remains firmly enforced
- Mandatory safety awareness course for P-Plate reinstatement post-suspension
Overview of Penalties for P-Platers from June 2025
| Violation | Current Fine (AUD) | New Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points | Suspension Trigger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phone Use (Handheld) | $496 | $990 | 5 | Immediate on 2nd offence |
| Speeding 10-20 km/h | $309 | $620 | 3 | 2nd offence in 12 months |
| Speeding 20-30 km/h | $464 | $930 | 4 | 1st offence |
| Failure to Display P-Plates | $116 | $300 | 2 | After 3rd warning |
| Not Wearing Seatbelt | $365 | $700 | 4 | Immediate suspension |
| Driving Under the Influence | $561 (min) | $1100+ | 6 | Automatic licence loss |
| Dangerous Driving | $800 | $1600 | 6 | Court + automatic loss |
| Phone on Lap While Driving | $496 | $990 | 5 | 1st offence |
New Focus: Mobile Phone Usage Crackdown
In response to a rise in distracted driving, mobile phone usage laws will be severely tightened. New AI-powered cameras and road patrol units will automatically detect phone use, whether it’s texting, checking navigation, or holding it while driving.
What Counts as Offence:
- Holding your phone at traffic lights
- Touching or using phone while in motion
- Placing the phone on your lap or hand without active use
Exemptions:
- Phones mounted in cradle and used hands-free
- Emergency calls to 000 or 112
License Suspension Rules Just Got Stricter
P-Platers now face a more rapid path to licence suspension. If a provisional driver accumulates 4 or more demerit points within 12 months, an automatic licence suspension applies. Repeat offences will extend the ban.
Suspension Periods Based on Points:
- 4 points: 3 months suspension
- 5-6 points: 6 months
- More than 6 points: Court appearance and up to 12-month disqualification
Suspension Duration Based on Points
| Demerit Points Accumulated | Suspension Period |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3 months |
| 5-6 | 6 months |
| 7 or more | Up to 12 months + court hearing |
Mandatory Re-Education Program for Suspended P-Platers
Once suspended, drivers must complete a mandatory safety course before they are allowed back on the road. The course covers:
- Speed awareness
- Dangers of distracted driving
- Substance abuse and driving
- Consequences of traffic violations
Fees for the program are around $250, and drivers must pass an assessment at the end to regain their provisional licence.
Course Structure:
- Duration: 2 full days or 4 evening sessions
- Available both online and offline
- Payment via Service NSW, VICRoads, or local state departments
Important:
Make the payment in advance via Service Australia portal or your State Roads Department. Retain the payment receipt as proof.
FAQs – New Aussie Road Rules
Q1: Will these new rules apply to all states?
Yes. All Australian states and territories are expected to adopt these new P-Plater rules starting June 1, 2025.
Q2: Can I appeal a suspension notice?
Yes. You can lodge an appeal with the State Traffic Authority within 28 days of the notice. Ensure to include supporting documents.
Q3: What if I’m caught using navigation?
You must use a mounted phone in a legal cradle and operate it hands-free only.
Q4: Will the rules apply to Red and Green P-Platers?
Yes. Both Red and Green P-Platers will be subject to these increased fines and suspensions.
Q5: Where can I pay fines or course fees?
Payments must be made through:
- Service NSW: www.service.nsw.gov.au
- VICRoads: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
- QLD TMR: www.tmr.qld.gov.au
Departmental Contact Information
| State | Contact Department | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Service NSW | 13 77 88 | www.service.nsw.gov.au |
| Victoria | VICRoads | 13 11 71 | www.vicroads.vic.gov.au |
| Queensland | Transport & Main Roads | 13 23 80 | www.tmr.qld.gov.au |
| South Australia | SA Gov – MyLicence | 13 10 84 | www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving |
| Western Australia | WA Transport | 13 11 56 | www.transport.wa.gov.au |
Conclusion of New Aussie Road Rules
The new road rules mark a major shift in how provisional drivers are regulated on Australian roads. With penalties doubled and suspension thresholds lowered, the aim is to push P-Platers toward more responsible and safer driving practices. If you’re a P-Plate driver, staying informed and adapting quickly will be critical to avoiding hefty fines and the risk of losing your licence.
