Stay Safe on Holiday Roads: Essential Double Demerit Rules You Need to Know in Your State

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As many of us settle in for the end-of-year festivities and some much-needed R&R, there’s one thing that can quickly put a damper on the holiday spirit: copping a hefty fine or losing your licence before the new year even begins.

Yep, double demerits season is here. In some states, it brings with it a major driving crackdown, bigger penalties, and the risk of losing your licence altogether.

But not every state treats the holiday period the same. Some ramp up enforcement and penalties, while others don’t run a double demerits program at all.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial for drivers to be aware of the road rules and the implications of double demerits in their state. This period often sees a surge in travel, with many taking to the roads to visit family and friends, making it essential to drive safely and responsibly.

Double demerits are a system designed to encourage road safety by imposing harsher penalties on certain traffic offences. If you’re caught committing these offences during designated periods, such as holiday weekends or school holidays, you may face double the usual demerit points. This means that even a small slip-up could significantly impact your driving record and potentially lead to the suspension of your license.

In NSW, double demerits will be in force from 24 December 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Among the offences that can attract double demerits are speeding, seatbelt violations, and using a mobile phone while driving. It’s important to note that additional penalties may apply if these offences occur in an active school zone, where children’s safety is a top priority.

Speeding
Not wearing a seatbelt, wearing one incorrectly, or driving a passenger who isn’t properly restrained
Using a mobile phone illegally
Riding without a helmet

If you’re caught committing any of these offences, you’ll lose double the usual demerit points and face a hefty fine.

For example, drivers caught using their phone during this period could get hit with a $423 fine and 10 demerit points.

During specified periods, the following infractions will incur double demerits: speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, illegal use of a phone while driving, and failing to wear a helmet on a motorcycle. The rationale behind these penalties is to deter dangerous driving behaviors that can lead to accidents and to promote a culture of safety on the roads.

Understanding and adhering to these rules not only helps in avoiding hefty fines and loss of demerit points but also ensures the safety of all road users. As you plan your travels, make sure to stay informed about the specific dates and regulations in your state, ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Drivers in the ACT could be hit with double demerits from 24 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, aligning with NSW.

Double demerits apply for offences including:

Speeding
Not wearing a seatbelt or wearing a seatbelt incorrectly, or driving a passenger doing so
Using your phone illegally
Riding without a helmet

Western Australia

WA’s double demerit period will run from 19 December 2025 to 4 January 2026.

During this time, the following offences will earn double demerits:

Speeding
Drink or drug driving
Failing to wear a seatbelt and child restraint
Running a red light
Illegal use of a mobile phone while driving
Drive a motor vehicle fitted with a device designed to evade detection by a speed camera (14 points during double demerits period)
Drive a motor vehicle in a manner to evade detection by a speed camera (14 points during double demerits period)