Motorists across Australia are being warned to exercise extreme caution this Easter long weekend as police launch a major road safety crackdown. However, the enforcement of double demerit points will not be uniform across all states and territories, creating a patchwork of penalties for drivers.
States Implementing Double Demerits
In New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia, double demerit points will be in effect from 12:01 am on Thursday, April 2, until 11:59 pm on Monday, April 6. This heightened penalty period targets specific high-risk offences during the holiday weekend.
Offences Subject to Double Penalties
In these jurisdictions, drivers caught committing certain violations will face doubled demerit points. The offences include speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failing to wear a seatbelt properly, and using a mobile phone while operating a vehicle.
Western Australia extends these penalties to include running red lights. The impact is significant; for example, in New South Wales, a driver caught using a mobile phone will receive ten demerit points instead of the usual five, while those not wearing seatbelts correctly will incur six points rather than three.
Queensland's Unique Approach
Queensland operates under a different system, where double demerits are applied year-round but only to repeat offenders. Motorists who commit high-risk offences such as speeding over 20 km/h or using a phone while driving within one year of a previous violation face doubled penalties.
States Without Double Demerits
In contrast, South Australia, the Northern Territory, Victoria, and Tasmania do not have double demerit point systems at any time during the year. While police in these regions will still be vigilant, issuing fines for dangerous driving, the demerit points will not be doubled over the Easter period.
Additional Enforcement Period
A second phase of double demerits is scheduled for the Anzac Day long weekend, from Friday, April 24, to Monday, April 27, in New South Wales, the ACT, and Western Australia. This extended crackdown aims to maintain road safety across consecutive holiday periods.
Authorities are urging all drivers, regardless of location, to adhere to road rules strictly. Police will be monitoring for common infractions like speeding, seatbelt non-compliance, and mobile phone use, with fines still applying even where demerits are not doubled.
