As the Easter long weekend approaches, Australians are gearing up for travel, family visits, or simply enjoying the break. However, it’s essential for drivers to remain vigilant, as this holiday period is notoriously one of the most perilous times on Australian roads.
Law enforcement agencies will be on heightened alert, with several states and territories introducing double demerit points for traffic offences. This double demerit system will be in effect in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia from Thursday, April 17 through to Easter Monday, April 21. It will also apply again from April 24 to April 27 for Anzac Day. While the fines for offences will remain unchanged, drivers can incur double demerits for violations such as speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing seatbelts, and riding without a helmet. Western Australia specifically includes running a red light under these penalties.
Motorists are advised to stay focused on the road, avoid distractions, maintain safe speeds, and exercise patience. Those feeling fatigued should take regular breaks, and it’s important to factor in additional travel time during this busy period.
In contrast, some states have different approaches. For example, double demerit points in jurisdictions like Victoria do not follow the same holiday-only policy; thus, they may be applied after multiple offences within a year, contingent upon the type of offence being committed. In such scenarios, any subsequent infringement within the same category can attract double demerits, but a clean record of over a year resets the demerits to standard points.
While Victoria doesn’t enforce double demerits, it will increase its police presence on roads with an extensive eleven-day road safety campaign running from April 17 to April 27. The focus will be on high-risk behaviours, including fatigued driving, the use of alcohol or drugs, seatbelt compliance, and speeding.
Meanwhile, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Tasmania do not have a system of double demerit points. Regardless, authorities in these regions are also urging drivers to exercise extra caution over the Easter weekend.
As festivities commence, all motorists are reminded to take great care while travelling. The combination of increased traffic and the spirit of the holiday can lead to potential hazards, so remain alert and prioritise safety above all else.