This article outlines the double demerit point periods in effect across Australia during the Australia Day long weekend. It details the specific jurisdictions affected, the duration of the double demerit period, and the offenses that trigger these enhanced penalties. The article also clarifies how double demerits apply to drivers with licenses from different states and territories.
Australia Day long weekend coincides with a four-day period of double demerits in certain jurisdictions. These double demerits came into effect at 12:01am on Friday, January 24th, in New South Wales, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory, lasting until 11:59pm on Monday, January 27th. It's important to note that double demerits apply only to motorists from these three jurisdictions, regardless of their location while driving.
For example, if a driver from Victoria, traveling through New South Wales, receives a fine, the demerit point penalty will be based on Victorian road laws. Conversely, if a driver with a New South Wales license is caught breaking traffic laws in Victoria (which doesn't enforce double demerits), they will still be subject to double demerit points.What offenses trigger double demerit points?New South Wales: In Australia's most populous state, double demerits are issued for speeding, illegal mobile phone use, failing to wear a seatbelt, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet.Australian Capital Territory: Similar to New South Wales, motorists in the nation's capital face double demerit points for speeding, illegal mobile phone use, not wearing seatbelts, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet. The ACT also adds an extra demerit point for all other traffic violations.Western Australia: Double demerit points in Western Australia apply for speeding, drink or drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt or child restraint, and illegal mobile phone use. Additionally, 14 points can be deducted for driving a vehicle with a radar detector or driving in a manner to evade speed camera detection. Queensland: While Queensland doesn't have holiday-specific double demerit periods, the state enforces stricter penalties for certain driving offenses daily. These include exceeding the speed limit by more than 20km/h, any mobile phone-related offenses, driver seatbelt violations, motorcycle helmet offenses, and failure to properly restrain passengers under 16. Double demerits are applied only to drivers who commit the same offense within 12 months of their first offense, with the second offense receiving twice the demerit points.Everywhere else: Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory do not impose double demerit points during holiday periods or at any other time
DOUBLE DEMERITS AUSTRALIA DAY TRAFFIC LAWS OFFENCES JURISDICTIONS
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