October 4th 2024.
As the October long weekend approaches, Australians are being reminded to take extra caution on the roads. This is because some states have already implemented double demerit points, which means that penalties for certain driving offences will be doubled during this period. In anticipation of this, police in many states have announced that they will be increasing their presence and targeting specific offences such as speeding, not wearing seatbelts, using mobile phones while driving, and riding motorcycles without helmets. However, it's important to note that not every state or territory follows this system of double demerits.
For those living in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, the double demerit points came into effect at midnight and will remain in place for four days, until midnight on Monday. This means that if you are caught committing any of the aforementioned offences during this period, you will face double the demerit points and penalties. For example, using your mobile phone while driving could result in a hefty $410 fine and a loss of 10 out of 13 demerit points from your licence. The ACT follows a similar system, with one extra demerit point being added for minor offences like failing to keep left. It's important to keep track of your demerit points, as reaching the limit could result in a suspension of your licence.
In Queensland, the long weekend is being celebrated as the King's Birthday, rather than Labour Day. However, the state has a different approach to double demerits compared to NSW and the ACT. Instead of only implementing them during public holidays, Queensland has them in place year-round, but they only apply to drivers who commit the same offence twice within a 12-month period. This includes offences such as speeding over 20km/h, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet. Additionally, if you hold a Queensland licence and commit a traffic offence anywhere in Australia, the demerit points may still apply as if the offence was committed in Queensland.
While South Australians will be celebrating Labour Day on Monday, the state does not have a double demerit points system for public holidays. This means that penalties for driving offences committed during this weekend will be the same as any other time of the year. Similarly, Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory will not be getting a long weekend this October. Western Australia is the only one of these states that has a double demerit points system in place, which was in effect during the King's Birthday weekend in September.
In a nutshell, it's important for all drivers to be aware of the double demerit points system in their state or territory, and to follow all road rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable long weekend. Stay safe on the roads and have a happy holiday!
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