Starting July 1, 2025, a sweeping update to Australia’s road rules will officially take effect across all states and territories. This national road safety initiative brings significant changes to speed limits, vehicle safety standards, drug driving enforcement, mobile phone use, and the process for new drivers earning their licence. Whether you’re a city driver or travel regional highways, here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and what it means for you.
Table of Contents
Speed
The first noticeable change will be the adjusted speed limits in key locations. School zones will now be active for much longer—starting at 7:00 AM and ending at 7:00 PM—reflecting extended school activity hours and protecting children across the entire day. Previously, zones were enforced only during narrow morning and afternoon windows.
In residential areas and around sensitive zones like hospitals, aged care facilities, and public parks, new permanent 40 km/h limits are being introduced. These speed reductions aim to lower injury rates among vulnerable pedestrians and reduce accident severity.
Safety
From July, all new vehicles sold in Australia must come equipped with critical safety technologies. This includes:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Departure Warning Systems
- Pedestrian Detection Systems
These features are now mandatory under updated Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Automakers and dealers will need to ensure vehicles meet these new compliance standards before sale.
Mobile
Using a mobile phone while driving is now riskier than ever—both in terms of safety and the cost of getting caught. The nationwide rollout of mobile phone detection cameras means fewer chances to sneak a glance without consequences.
Get caught touching your phone and you’ll face:
- A $1,200 fine
- 5 demerit points
- Possible licence suspension for repeat offenders within 12 months
Authorities recommend using legal hands-free kits or dashboard mounts to avoid fines and reduce distractions.
Drug
Australia is expanding its drug driving enforcement tools. Roadside drug tests will now detect a wider array of substances, including synthetic drugs and impairing prescription medications.
Zero-tolerance policies now apply to:
- All commercial drivers
- Provisional (P-plate) drivers
Anyone testing positive faces immediate licence suspension, even for first-time offences.
Learners
The path to getting a licence has also changed. Learner drivers must now log at least 160 hours of supervised driving time, covering a wide range of conditions such as:
- Night-time
- Rain or wet roads
- Highway and freeway driving
- Urban peak-hour traffic
On top of that, all learners must pass a new hazard perception simulation test before advancing to a provisional licence. This aims to better prepare new drivers for real-world risks.
Fines
There are also major increases in fines and penalties for common driving offences, especially in high-risk or accident-prone zones. Expect to pay more—and risk more points—for:
- Running red lights
- Tailgating
- Failing to indicate
- Speeding in enforcement zones
Some offences will attract double demerits during long weekends and holiday periods.
Here’s a quick table summarising the key updates:
| Law/Area Affected | New Rule/Change |
|---|---|
| School Zones | Extended hours from 7 AM to 7 PM |
| Residential Speed Limits | Permanent 40 km/h in specific suburbs |
| Mobile Phone Use | $1,200 fine + 5 demerit points |
| Drug Driving | Broader substance tests; zero-tolerance rule |
| Vehicle Safety Features | AEB, lane warnings, pedestrian systems |
| Learner Driver Requirements | 160 hours + hazard simulation test |
| Traffic Violation Penalties | Higher fines; double demerits in risk zones |
Action
So what should you do? For starters, take time to familiarise yourself with the new laws, especially if you frequently drive in school zones or residential neighbourhoods. Local signage may vary by suburb, so don’t rely solely on memory.
If you’re a learner or a parent of one, review your state’s logbook requirements and begin planning how to complete the expanded training. The added hours and tests mean getting your licence will take more time and effort—but ideally lead to safer roads.
The goal of these laws is not just to punish bad behaviour, but to build a safer driving environment for all Australians. Staying informed and compliant is the best way to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roads.
FAQs
What are the new school zone hours?
School zones now run from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
How much is the phone use fine?
$1,200 and 5 demerit points for using a phone while driving.
What’s required for learner drivers now?
160 hours and a hazard simulation test before licensing.
Which safety features must new cars have?
AEB, lane warnings, and pedestrian detection are required.
What’s the penalty for drug driving?
Immediate licence suspension for commercial and P-platers.
