Double demerits now in force – here’s what you need to know

Double demerit points now apply for traffic offences in NSW, Western Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and Queensland – here’s everything you need to know.

Continuing until early January, the boosted penalties were put in place with the aim of curbing the increase in road fatalities associated with the busy holiday period.

While there is some debate about the factors causing the trend, December has historically been one of worst – if not the worst – months for automotive-related injuries and deaths in Australia.

In NSW, exceeding the speed limit by less than 15km/h will now result in two points – up from one – while handling a mobile phone will set you back 10.

In Western Australia, exceeding the speed limit by less than 19km/h will cost four demerit points, while using a mobile phone will set you back six.

In the Australian Capital Territory, exceeding the speed limit by less than 15km/h will lead to two demerits, while using a mobile phone while driving warrants eight.  

In Queensland, double demerits apply all year round for repeat offender drivers, however these do not increase for Christmas or New Year.

While it’s now considerably easier to wipe out your licence with a single offence, double the demerits does not equate to double the fines. Financial penalties do not increase over the break in any state or territory.

So stay safe on the roads and look out for your fellow motorists. Merry Christmas and happy holidays from all of us at Drive.