New road rules and increased fines to be rolled out July 1

Drivers in one Aussie state could cop new fines of up to $1648 for something you probably do every day.

In an effort to combat Australia’s high road toll, a host of new safety initiatives are being rolled out across the country next week.

If you’re worried about being smacked with an increased fine, here’s everything you need to know.

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Image: Julian Andrews.

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Don’t touch your phone!

Stricter restrictions around phone use - and higher fines because of it - is one of the biggest changes coming July 1.

A wider rollout of AI-powered surveillance cameras for mobile detection will be used across the country, except the Northern Territory.

These camera systems can detect and identify drivers who are touching their phones behind the wheel - and can result in up to $1209 in fines and five demerit points, depending on the state.

Existing mobile phone detection cameras, and additional surveillance, in New South Wales will also be able to detect seatbelt use, which, as a result of the annual adjustment of the dollar penalty, means those caught will cop a $423 fine for not wearing one.

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Don’t be a part of the emergency

In a number of states, rules around speed when emergency vehicles are nearby will be amended.

In Victoria, an amendment to Road Rule 79A will require drivers to slow down to 40km/h while passing assistance vehicles, tow trucks or emergency vehicles that are flashing lights or sounding their alarm - including in freeways.

Failure to comply may lead to fines of up to $961, but no demerit points.

Drivers in South Australia will have to slow down to 25km/h when passing these kinds of vehicles on multi-lane roads. Unlike in Victoria, South Australians could cop penalties of up to $1648 and seven demerit points, as part of a safety campaign for the state.

Slow down!

Speed limits more generally in some states are also set to be lowered.

In Western Australia, a 40km/h rule will be enforced in high pedestrian areas such as the Augusta town centre and other surrounding streets, in addition to the ongoing speed limit reduction trial currently occurring in the state.

Queenslanders will also have to look out for speed limit reductions from 50km/h to 40km/h in areas such as the Hervey Bay Esplanade in an effort to keep drivers and pedestrians safe.

Originally published as New road rules and increased fines to be rolled out July 1