Aussies to be slugged with fine hikes in federal budget

The amount you’re paying for fines could be set to increase as the government looks at clawing back millions.

Australians will soon be paying more for fines as the government gets creative in how it can undertake budget repair.

From January 1, the cost of a Commonwealth penalty unit – the amount payable for fines under federal laws, will rise from $222 to $275.

The change will see $31.6m returned to the budget over the next for years.

It will be indexed every three years in line with inflation, with the next increase due on July 1, 2023.

The amount people will be paying in fines is set to increase.

“This measure delivers on the government’s election commitment,” the budget paper said.

Fines are payable for offences committed under Commonwealth laws, including in relation to communication, financial, tax and fraud offences.

“The measure ensures that financial penalties for Commonwealth offences continue to remain effective in deterring unlawful behaviour and contributes to budget repair,” the budget papers said.

The penalties were last increased in 2020 by then attorney-general Christian Porter.

Originally published as Aussies to be slugged with fine hikes in federal budget