Queensland: Double Demerit Points, Loss Of Licence For Mobile Phone Use

The Queensland Government will introduce tougher penalties for mobile phone offences as the state attempts to tackle what it believes is a growing problem.

The state government says around 75 percent of Queensland drivers are using mobile phones while driving, with Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey calling the practice “a great danger”.

From September, a first offence will result in the current $341 fine and three demerit points, whereas a second offence within 12 months will earn drivers the same fine (again) and a further six demerit points.

Provisional licence holders, however, will automatically have their licences suspended after a second mobile phone offence within 12 months.

"This is a great danger to other road users and it has to stop," Mr Bailey said, speaking with the ABC.

"We make no apologies for being tough on people who are using mobile phones in their cars."

Road Safety