Avoid hefty fines this October long weekend! Discover where double demerit points are in effect by state

Members, it's that special time of the year again when we get to partake in long weekend festivities—and as usual, we’d like to make sure everyone is aware of the road rules they should abide by during their travels.


It’s no secret that spending lots of time on the road increases your chances of making mistakes, but don’t worry! As long as you know the rules and stick to them, there’s no way for police to make you take on extra points or unnecessary expenses.


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Some states in Australia are imposing double demerits ahead of the long weekend. Credit: Google Maps


Though double demerit points will be enforced in some parts of the country, other states, like Victoria, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, will not be implementing harsher penalties so that everyone can enjoy this Labour Day long weekend.

To help us be more aware of when and where double demerit points will be in effect, we’ve made a state-by-state rundown so there’s no confusion.


New South Wales (NSW)

In NSW, police will enforce harsher penalties from 12:01 am on Friday until 11:59 pm on Monday, October 2.

People caught doing offences like speeding, using a mobile phone behind the wheel, not wearing a seatbelt, and riding without a helmet will all get double demerit points for each violation.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

As for the ACT, police will begin double demerit points from 12:01 am on Friday, and, like NSW, it'll remain in effect until Monday at 11:59 pm.

Rules that will incur harsher penalties include speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone while driving, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet.


Queensland (QLD)

In QLD, a special period for double demerit points will not be effective throughout the Labour Day weekend.

However, repeat offenders can still receive double demerit points for committing the same offence more than once within 12 months. This includes people speeding over 20km/h above the limit, using their mobile phones behind the wheel, or riding a motorcycle without a helmet.

Western Australia (WA)

The state does not hand out double demerits on all public holidays, and this weekend, no special penalties will be implemented either.

Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania

Police in these states will be issuing guilty drivers their standard punishments with no extra penalties on top.

In Victoria, the police launched Operation Regal last Thursday, September 28. This increased the patrols on the road for the long weekend.


Key Takeaways
  • Double demerits will be enforced in some Australian states over the Labour Day long weekend.
  • In NSW and ACT, heavier penalties will be in place, targeting speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt and helmet infringement, starting from 12:01 a.m. Friday and ending at 11:59 p.m. Monday.
  • Queensland doesn't enforce double demerits but hands them out for repeated offences within
    12 months.
  • Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia will not impose special harsher penalties this long weekend.

Members, take this article as a friendly reminder to stay safe, follow the road rules, and avoid hefty fines!

Planning a road trip this long weekend, members? Share your fun plans in the comments below!
 
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