As the holiday season approaches, authorities in Australia are issuing a stark reminder about a widespread and potentially deadly driving offence many commit without a second thought. The act of tucking a seatbelt's sash under your arm, rather than wearing it correctly across the chest, is illegal nationwide and can result in fines of up to $1,200 alongside significant demerit point penalties.
The Hidden Danger of Incorrect Seatbelt Use
Transport for NSW has emphasised that for a seatbelt to be effective in a crash, the lap portion must lie low, flat, and firm across the bony part of the hips. The sash should be positioned across the chest and the middle of the shoulder. Wearing the sash under the arm drastically increases the risk of serious injury or death in an accident, as it fails to properly restrain the upper body.
Incorrect use also includes wearing a twisted or slack seatbelt. It is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure all passengers, regardless of age, are correctly restrained. The statistics are sobering: in New South Wales alone, approximately 29 unbelted drivers and passengers are killed each year, with around 76 suffering serious injuries. Queensland sees an average of 38 fatalities and 200 serious injuries annually from not wearing a seatbelt properly.
Substantial Fines and Demerit Points Across States
Penalties for seatbelt offences, often caught by detection cameras, vary across states and territories but are universally severe, especially during double demerit periods.
- NSW: Drivers face a $423 fine and 3 demerit points. The penalty rises to $855 and 6 points for two unrestrained passengers.
- Queensland: Penalties are set at 4 demerit points and a $1,251 fine for all seatbelt-related offences.
- Victoria: A $407 fine and 3 demerit points apply.
- ACT: Maximum penalties can reach up to $3,200.
- Western Australia: Fines start at $550 for passengers aged 16+.
- Northern Territory: A $500 fine and 3 demerit points.
- South Australia: Drivers cop a $448 fine and 3 demerit points.
- Tasmania: A $410 fine and 3 demerit points.
Are There Any Exemptions?
Exemptions from wearing a seatbelt are rare and highly specific. They include passengers receiving urgent medical care, workers in vehicles like garbage trucks who must frequently exit (when travelling under 25km/h), and individuals who hold a valid medical exemption certificate. For the vast majority of motorists, however, correct seatbelt use is not optional—it is a fundamental legal requirement for safety.
With holiday travel increasing and double demerit periods in force, the message from transport authorities is clear: ensuring your seatbelt is worn correctly is a simple step that saves lives and avoids costly, licence-threatening penalties.
