New penalties for NSW motorists will take effect from 1 July 2025, as part of a nationwide reform to reduce road trauma and improve safety. The sweeping changes introduce tougher fines and stricter enforcement for offences including speeding, mobile phone use, hooning, and child seatbelt violations.
Dylan Anderson
Speeding Offences Will Cost Drivers More
Speeding remains one of the deadliest behaviours on NSW roads. From July:
- Exceeding the speed limit by 10-20 km/h will increase from $409 to $580.
- Speeding by 30 km/h or more could now result in immediate licence suspension and fines up to $1,600.
- Other risky actions like tailgating and dangerous overtaking will also face fines between $500 and $1,200.
These changes align with Transport for NSW's goal of cutting the road toll and deterring habitual speeding.
Hooning Comes with Heavy Consequences
First-time hoon offenders in NSW – those caught street racing, doing burnouts, or driving recklessly – could face fines of up to $2,500. Repeat offenders may have their vehicles permanently confiscated and risk jail time.
Phone Use While Driving to Attract Harsh Penalties
One of the most controversial updates involves mobile phone usage:
- Drivers caught using a mobile phone while driving — even when stopped at traffic lights — will face a $700 fine and five demerit points.
- A second offence within 12 months could double the fine and result in a three-month licence suspension.
The NSW Government is expected to rely on existing mobile phone detection cameras to enforce the rule aggressively.
Dylan Anderson
Child Safety and Seatbelt Laws Tightened
New penalties also prioritise child passenger safety:
- Not wearing a seatbelt will cost $600 and incur six demerit points.
- Failing to secure a child properly in a car seat could result in a $1,000 fine and a licence review.
- Rideshare drivers and taxis will face increased compliance checks to ensure passengers are properly restrained.
Increased Surveillance and On-Road Enforcement
NSW Police and the Transport Management Centre will roll out a coordinated operation from July, using:
- Enhanced AI cameras to detect phone use and seatbelt non-compliance.
- Real-time number plate recognition to identify unregistered vehicles or suspended licences.
- More random drug and alcohol testing across Sydney and regional NSW.
This technology-driven crackdown is intended to increase accountability and boost road safety.
Government's Push for Road Culture Reform
These changes signal a broader reform strategy. The combination of stiffer fines, more demerit points, and stronger licence penalties aims to:
- Deter risky driving behaviour.
- Reinforce public education on road safety.
- Improve compliance through technology and community campaigns.
Key Takeaways for NSW Drivers
- New fines begin 1 July 2025.
- Speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt offences are top enforcement priorities.
- Repeat offenders could lose their licence or vehicle.
- NSW will deploy more automated detection technology to catch violators.
These reforms are based on national policy updates reported by SBLConnect.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
