Starting July 1, 2025, a new wave of driving laws will officially come into force across Australia. The changes are part of a national road safety initiative designed to reduce traffic accidents, protect vulnerable road users, and introduce stricter accountability on the roads. All drivers whether city commuters or regional motorists are expected to comply with these updated rules or face increased penalties.
Speed Zones Adjusted in Key Areas
One of the biggest changes involves new speed regulations in school zones, residential areas, and regional intersections. School zones will now operate from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM instead of the previous 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM windows. In select suburbs, permanent 40 km/h zones will be introduced, especially near hospitals, senior living centres, and parks.
Mandatory Safety Features in New Vehicles
From July, all new vehicles sold in Australia must be equipped with core safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), lane departure warnings, and pedestrian detection systems. These features are now legally required for compliance with Australian Design Rules, aiming to reduce injury and fatality rates in collisions.
Stronger Penalties for Mobile Phone Use
Mobile phone detection cameras are being expanded nationwide, and drivers caught using their phones even momentarily will face a $1,200 fine and five demerit points. Repeat offences within a 12-month period may lead to license suspension. Authorities are stressing the importance of hands-free systems and dashboard mounts as safer alternatives.
Zero-Tolerance Drug Driving Policy Expanded
New roadside testing methods will now check for a wider range of substances, including synthetic drugs and prescription medications that impair driving. Commercial drivers and P-platers will be subject to a strict zero-tolerance rule, and those found in violation will face immediate license suspension.
Licence Testing Reforms for Learner Drivers
For new drivers, the learning process will become more intensive. A minimum of 160 supervised driving hours will now be required across different conditions night, rain, highway, and urban areas. In addition, learner drivers must now pass a hazard simulation test before graduating to the provisional license phase.
Increased Fines and Enforcement Zones
Enforcement zones near accident-prone areas will see boosted patrols and mobile camera units. Fines for common infractions such as running red lights, tailgating, or failing to indicate have all increased, with some offences now attracting double demerits during holiday periods and long weekends.
Summary of Key Driving Law Changes – July 2025
| Law/Area Affected | New Rule/Change |
|---|---|
| School Zones | Extended hours from 7 AM to 7 PM |
| Speed Limits in Residential Areas | Permanent 40 km/h zones introduced |
| Mobile Phone Use | $1,200 fine + 5 demerits; expanded detection cameras |
| Drug Driving Policy | Broader roadside testing; zero tolerance for some groups |
| Vehicle Safety Features | AEB, lane warning, and pedestrian detection mandatory |
| Learner Driver Rules | 160 driving hours + hazard simulation test required |
| Traffic Violation Penalties | Higher fines; double demerits in risk zones |
What Drivers Need to Do Now
To avoid fines and license suspensions, drivers should familiarise themselves with the updated regulations immediately. It’s also important to check local council signage, as some of the new limits and zones will vary by suburb.
For learner drivers and parents, updated logbook rules and hazard training resources are available on state transport websites. These laws aim to build safer roads, but they also come with consequences for those who fail to adapt.