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Time of India

Australia's new road rules start on July 1; Massive fines, slashed speed limits, and AI cameras target drivers

Sweeping changes to road rules across Australia will take effect on Tuesday, July 1, as state and federal governments move to reduce road fatalities and improve safety. The new laws affect everything from speeding and tolls to mobile phone use and vehicle registration fees. New South Wales (NSW) will introduce a 3.2 percent increase to all road-related penalties, fees, and charges. For example, the fine for using a mobile phone while driving will rise from A$410 to A$423. Importantly, existing mobile phone detection cameras will also be used to identify drivers not wearing seatbelts. Average speed cameras, previously used mostly for heavy vehicles, will now also target light vehicles, including passenger cars and motorcycles. Additionally, tolls will increase on several major Sydney roads, including the M7, M2, M5 South West, NorthConnex, Lane Cove Tunnel, Eastern Distributor, and the Cross City Tunnel. In Queensland, speed limits in some busy pedestrian-heavy zones will drop from 50 km/h to 40 km/h. The fine for illegal mobile phone use will increase from A$1209 to A$1250, and car registration costs will also rise by 3.4 percent. Victoria is expanding Road Rule 79A, which requires drivers to slow to 40 km/h when passing stationary roadside assistance, tow trucks, or emergency vehicles displaying lights or alarms. Offenders may face fines up to A$961. Live Events In South Australia, drivers will need to slow down to 25 km/h when passing stationary emergency or breakdown vehicles on multi-lane roads if the lights are flashing. Noncompliance could lead to fines up to A$1,648 and seven demerit points. Western Australia will reduce speed limits across hundreds of roads, with some dropping from 60 km/h to 50 km/h and others down to 40 km/h in high-foot traffic zones. The penalty for illegal mobile phone use will rise to A$700, while extreme speeding fines may reach A$1600. Authorities say the changes are part of a national push to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Australian roads. Road safety experts warn that distracted and speeding drivers remain a leading cause of accidents nationwide. 'Every change is aimed at protecting lives,' a NSW Transport spokesperson said.