As the Anzac Day long weekend approaches, motorists in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) are reminded to adhere to road safety regulations, as double demerit points will be enforced for various driving offences from Thursday, April 24, 2025, to Sunday, April 27, 2025. This initiative aims to curb dangerous driving behaviors during a time when many Australians take to the roads to commemorate Anzac Day and enjoy the extended holiday.
Transport for NSW's Executive Director of Transport Safety, Chadi Chalhoub, emphasized the importance of safe driving during this period. "Road safety is a shared responsibility, and I urge all motorists to make safe decisions this long weekend. One bad decision on the road can cost you more than double demerits – it could cost a life," he stated. Last year, during the same double demerit period, six lives were lost on NSW roads, a statistic that underscores the critical need for vigilance.
Double demerits will apply to offences including speeding, not wearing seatbelts, illegal mobile phone use, and motorcycle helmet violations. For instance, in Western Australia (WA), specific offences can result in a staggering 14 demerit points being deducted in a single incident, particularly for driving vehicles equipped with devices to evade speed cameras or driving in a manner that avoids detection.
In Queensland, the approach to double demerits differs significantly. The Sunshine State enforces double demerits year-round but only for drivers who commit the same offence twice within a 12-month period. Offences subject to this rule include speeding over 20 km/h above the limit, as well as violations related to mobile phone use, seatbelts, and motorcycle helmets. This means that while Queenslanders won't face double demerits specifically for the Anzac Day weekend, repeat offenders will still be penalized heavily.
Meanwhile, in states such as Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory, double demerits are not part of the road safety strategy for the Anzac period. However, Victoria Police have been conducting a major road safety operation since April 17, which will conclude on April 27, aiming to ensure compliance with existing road rules.
As part of the heightened enforcement, police will be actively monitoring roads and conducting random checks to deter dangerous driving behaviors. This comes in the wake of a concerning Easter weekend, where three fatalities occurred on NSW roads, prompting authorities to reiterate the importance of road safety.
One recent incident highlights the potential consequences of reckless driving. An international tourist was caught on the Waterfall Way near Armidale, clocked at a staggering 159 km/h in a 100 km/h zone. The rider was fined $2,520 for exceeding the speed limit by more than 45 km/h and subsequently received a suspension notice, effectively stripping him of his driving privileges in NSW.
In another case, a learner driver was stopped on the New England Highway at Uralla for a random breath test, where he allegedly recorded a blood alcohol reading of .077. He has been charged with multiple offences, including driving unaccompanied and failing to display L plates, and is set to appear in Armidale Local Court in June 2025.
As the long weekend approaches, authorities are urging all drivers to plan their journeys carefully, allowing extra time for travel and ensuring they take regular breaks, especially on regional roads where wildlife can pose additional hazards. "We don’t want more families to lose their loved ones, so be vigilant and always allow extra time to travel even for short trips," Chalhoub advised.
With the Anzac Day long weekend marking a significant time for remembrance and reflection, it is also a period where road safety should be at the forefront of every motorist's mind. By adhering to road rules and making responsible choices, drivers can contribute to a safer environment for all road users.
In summary, as double demerits come into effect across various states and territories, drivers are reminded to stay alert and follow the rules. The consequences of reckless driving can be severe, not only in terms of penalties but also in the impact on lives and families. This Anzac Day, let’s honor the spirit of those we remember by committing to safer roads.
