Victoria will soon require all motorists to slow down to 40km/h when passing stationary or slow-moving tow trucks, roadside assistance vehicles, and incident response crews displaying flashing lights. The new rule, which comes into effect from 1 July 2025, brings Victoria in line with all other Australian states and territories.
Dylan Anderson
What the New Rule Covers
The expanded rule builds on Road Rule 79A, first introduced in Victoria in 2017, which currently applies to emergency service vehicles such as police, fire, ambulance, SES, and VicRoads. The updated regulation now includes:
- Accident and breakdown towing vehicles
- Roadside assistance vans
- Incident response service vehicles
These vehicles must be displaying flashing red, blue, magenta, or yellow lights to activate the 40km/h slow-down requirement. The rule applies in zones with speed limits between 50km/h and 110km/h.
Why the Change Was Needed
Victoria is the last state in Australia to implement this rule extension, following years of advocacy by roadside service providers who reported frequent near misses involving passing traffic.
According to RACV, roadside assistance teams are often the first to arrive at a breakdown or incident and face similar risks to traditional emergency responders. Their call for inclusion in this law has been based on improving safety for both workers and the drivers they assist.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Drivers caught failing to slow down face a maximum fine of $961, although no demerit points currently apply in Victoria. Motorists are not required to wait for a new speed limit sign to return to normal speeds but must ensure they have passed all workers and vehicles at the scene.
Dylan Anderson
How Victoria Compares Nationally
Across Australia, similar laws apply:
- NSW, QLD, WA, TAS, ACT: Drivers must slow to 40km/h when passing roadside and emergency vehicles
- SA: The required speed is 25km/h
Some jurisdictions, such as NSW and ACT, apply the rule only in zones up to 90km/h, with higher-speed areas requiring a reduction to a "safe and reasonable speed."
What Drivers Should Do
Victorian motorists are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new rule ahead of its implementation to avoid fines and ensure the safety of roadside personnel.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official guidance, refer to VicRoads or the Department of Transport Victoria.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
