The initial days of a new school term are typically dedicated to staff preparations, but some students in New South Wales might start heading back to school tomorrow after a six-week holiday.

The official commencement of term one in NSW is set for February 2.

In New South Wales, school zones are generally active from 8 to 9:30 am and from 2:30 to 4 pm on weekdays.

However, it’s worth noting that some schools across NSW operate with non-standard school zone times.

Motorists caught exceeding the 40 km/h speed limit in these zones can face steep fines, reaching up to $3,242, along with the addition of seven demerit points.

Chadi Chalhou, Executive Director at NSW Transport, emphasized that the school zone speed limit will be strictly monitored by both police and speed cameras to ensure compliance.

He warned that children can often be “unpredictable” and urged motorists to drive carefully around schools.

“We want motorists to slow down and look out for school children to avoid any road incidents,” Chalhou said.

“The message is simple: stick to the school zone speed limit, keep our kids safe, keep the demerits points off your license and keep the money in your pocket.”

School zone hours and limits vary across each Australian state and territory.