From July 1, 2025, a sweeping national overhaul of road rules will come into effect across Australia, and Western Australian drivers are being urged to take note. The new fine structure will bring tougher penalties for speeding, mobile phone use, seatbelt offences, and other high-risk driving behaviours, in a bid to curb the nation’s road toll.
Dylan Anderson
Higher Fines and New Penalties for Speeding
WA motorists will see significant increases in fines for speeding, even at low thresholds. For instance, driving 10 to 20 km/h over the limit could now cost around $580—a substantial jump from previous penalties. More severe breaches, such as exceeding the limit by over 30 km/h, could attract fines of up to $1,600 and an immediate licence suspension.
Hooning offences, including burnouts and illegal street racing, will now come with even greater consequences. First-time offenders could see fines of up to $2,500 and vehicle impoundments. Repeat offenders risk permanent vehicle confiscation and potential jail time.
Using a Phone While Driving? Expect a $700 Fine
From July, the use of mobile phones while driving in WA—even when stopped at traffic lights—will attract a $700 fine and five demerit points. Repeat offenders who are caught again within 12 months may face doubled fines and a three-month licence suspension.
This rule targets one of the fastest-growing contributors to distracted driving incidents in WA. Automated camera systems and increased patrols will assist with enforcement.
Dylan Anderson
Seatbelt and Child Safety Laws Strengthened
The fine for not wearing a seatbelt in WA is set to increase to $600, along with six demerit points. More critically, failure to properly secure a child in an appropriate restraint will now result in fines of up to $1,000 and may trigger a licence review.
Rideshare and taxi services are also under increased scrutiny, with random inspections and stricter compliance checks coming into effect mid-July.
Statewide Police Blitz and New Surveillance Tech
WA Police will join other jurisdictions in rolling out intensified enforcement campaigns. These will include more roadside drug and alcohol testing, random licence checks, and the use of advanced technologies like real-time number plate recognition.
Safety cameras capable of detecting mobile phone and seatbelt offences are also being deployed across the state, with some already operating under a caution notice period.
Road Safety is a Shared Responsibility
The goal behind these changes is not just about increasing fines. Authorities are pushing for cultural change on WA roads, aiming to reduce the state’s road toll, which has climbed significantly in recent years.
The National Transport Commission is also working on integrating tracking systems across states to ensure offenders can’t dodge penalties by crossing borders.
Stay Informed Before July 1
WA drivers are encouraged to review the upcoming changes and ensure they’re compliant before the new rules take effect. The cost of ignoring them could be far more than just financial.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
