Every New Australian Road Rule and Fine Taking Effect From July 1, 2025

The start of a new financial year often brings changes for drivers across the country — and July 1, 2025 is no different. With Australia recording its worst road toll figures in 15 years, governments have introduced new rules, adjusted speed limits, and increased fines, many of which are linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Here’s a state-by-state breakdown of what drivers need to know.

New South Wales

• CPI increase: All fines and penalties up 3.2%. Example: mobile phone use fines rise from $410 to $423.
• Average speed cameras: Now enforceable for all speeding offences on certain roads.
• Ticketless parking fines scrapped: Councils must issue on-the-spot notices and provide photographic evidence.
• Toll increases: Higher tolls across major Sydney motorways.

Queensland

• Lower speed limits: Reduced to 40km/h in busy pedestrian areas.
• CPI increase: Fines and rego up 3.4%. Example: mobile phone fines now $1250.

Victoria

• New 40km/h rule: Drivers must slow down to 40km/h when passing roadside vehicles (tow trucks, assistance vehicles, emergency response) displaying lights or alarms.
• Penalties: Fines can reach up to $961.

South Australia

• 25km/h slow-down law: Drivers must slow to 25km/h when passing stationary roadside emergency, breakdown or assistance vehicles with lights flashing.
• Penalties: Up to $1895 in fines and nine demerit points.

Western Australia

• Speed limits reduced: Many high-pedestrian areas now 40km/h (previously 50–60km/h).
• Higher fines: Illegal phone use: $700. Extreme speeding: up to $1600.
• Illegal phone use: $700.
• Extreme speeding: up to $1600.

Northern Territory

• Speed limit changes: Stuart Highway near Emerald Springs: 80 → 100km/h. Chung Wah Terrace to Wickham Point Road: 80km/h introduced. Wickham Point Road to Channel Island Bridge: 90km/h set.
• Stuart Highway near Emerald Springs: 80 → 100km/h.
• Chung Wah Terrace to Wickham Point Road: 80km/h introduced.
• Wickham Point Road to Channel Island Bridge: 90km/h set.

Tasmania

• No road rule or fine changes announced for July 1, 2025.

ACT

• No new road rule or fine changes announced for July 1, 2025.

Key Takeaway for Drivers

With new road rules and penalties now in effect, it’s more important than ever for motorists to stay informed and drive responsibly. Whether it’s slowing down near emergency vehicles, watching your phone use, or adjusting to new speed limits, these changes are designed to improve road safety nationwide.

At Tynan Motors, we’re committed to keeping our community safe and informed — both on the road and in the showroom. Stay road safe, and remember: the best drive is a safe one.