Roads & Driving
Traffic Law in Australia
The Australian Road Rules are a model law that each state and territory adopts (with local variations) into its own road transport legislation. Licensing, demerit points and fines are administered by your state's road transport authority.
Demerit points
Demerit points are recorded against your licence for most traffic offences. Thresholds vary: full licence holders typically face suspension at 12 or 13 points within 3 years. Learners and provisional drivers have stricter limits.
Drink and drug driving
The general blood alcohol limit is 0.05, with zero tolerance for learners, provisional drivers, heavy vehicle drivers and most professional drivers. Random roadside drug testing operates in every state and territory.
Disputing a fine
Most infringement notices can be reviewed by the issuing agency or elected to be heard in the Magistrates/Local Court. Time limits are short — usually 28 days. Check the back of the notice for instructions.
Crashes and reporting
Report any crash involving injury, death or significant property damage to police. Exchange names, addresses, registration and insurance details with the other parties. Contact your insurer as soon as possible.