Major road rule changes will be implemented across Australia from July 1, 2025.

Mobile phone use, seatbelt checks, and slowing down near breakdown vehicles are in the spotlight. Cameras will be doing more of the policing, and the penalties for slipping up are steeper than ever. Of course, safer roads matter – but with higher fines, more surveillance and broader rules, is this just as much about revenue as it is about risk? 

Phone and seatbelt crackdown goes national

From July 1, all states and territories will be using new camera systems to catch drivers using their phones or not wearing seatbelts. These cameras will be watching even when you’re stopped at traffic lights – and the penalties are steep.

  • Phone use while driving: Up to $1,209 in fines and five demerit points.
  • Not wearing a seatbelt: Bigger fines and more demerits depending on the state.

State-by-state rule changes

New South Wales

  • Seatbelt focus: More fines and checks across regional and metro areas.
  • Phone trial: Drivers over 25 might soon be allowed to use phones for navigation, depending on trial results.
  • Parking fines: Ticketless parking fines are being scrapped – paper notices are back.
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Victoria

  • Slow down near breakdowns: Drivers must now slow to 40km/h when passing any vehicle with flashing lights, not just emergency services. That includes tow trucks and roadside assistance.
  • Penalty: Up to $961 if you don’t slow down.

Queensland

  • Costs going up: Rego fees and fines are rising by 3.4 per cent.
  • Speed cuts: Tourist areas and busy spots are dropping to 40km/h zones to protect pedestrians.

South Australia

  • Breakdown vehicle rule: If you’re on a multi-lane road and see a recovery vehicle with amber lights, you must slow to 25km/h.
  • Fine: Up to $1,648 and seven demerit points – wowsers!

Western Australia

  • Speed limits reduced: Many urban roads are dropping to 60km/h, and town centres to 40km/h, to tackle a spike in road deaths.

Take the time to check your local state transport website and get familiar with the new rules before they kick in on July 1.

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