In 2025, Australia implemented new traffic laws in school zones Across the country ensuring improved safety and increasing fines for violations and offences committed in school zones areas. The enhancement focuses on driving safety behavior and overall protection for children at school countrywide. All speeding, fine, and demerit point increments in school zones offenses aim at ensuring pedestrian safety.
New Policy on Speed Limits for School Zones
Several states now set 40 km/h as the upper speed limit in school zones, while others have also set it at 30 km/h, particularly in areas with significant pedestrian volume. These set limits are compulsory, and fines are capped as punitive measures. School zones are clearly marked and marked on driver compliance with the 40 km/h and 30 km/h limits through school zone warning traffic signs and school zone flashing lights.
Higher Fines and Additional Demerit Points
In Australia, penalties for school zone violations have increased enforcement and bolstered penalties. Fines for school zone violations can reach hundreds to thousands of Australian dollars. Speeding violations of more than 10 km/h school zones can range from 246andcanreach3,200 for 45 km/h violations. Driving in school zones doubles the demerit points, and adds additional levels for reckless driving. These penalties are extremely steep and, as such, are likely to prevent reckless driving in school zones.
Fines and Demerit Points in School Zones
| Offence | Fine Range (AUD) | Demerit Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding 10 km/h or less over | $246 – $592 | 2-5 | Double demerits in school zones |
| Speeding 20-30 km/h over | $562 – $1,429 | 4-6 | Possible license suspension |
| Speeding 45+ km/h over | $3,242+ | 6-7 | License disqualification likely |
| Using mobile phone in school zone | ~$1,800+ | 6 | Strict penalties for distraction |
| Illegal U-turn in school zone | Around $423 | 3-5 | Common traffic offence |
Common violations in school zones include failing to give Way, U- Turn violations, two-way mobile phone violations, and holding phones while driving. For example, mobile phone usage fines in school zones can range over and above $1,800 and heavy demerit points. These, among others, Set Repeat offenders face tougher penalties and they will likely have suspended licenses. These are necessary defense changes, as they address the increased risk of reckless driving children face in dangerous areas.
Striping Away Cliff Side Glass
Policing for these new rules involves a partnership with local councils, school authorities, and road safety programs. School crossing supervisors communicate with the crossing points and the surrounding. It also involves coordination with the government efforts to promote the safety of the children in school, especially during their school opening and closing hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. When do school zones in a place and for how long?
A. School zones are active for a period of the whole school day, and the start and finishing hours of school, and during the school development days and in-service training.
Q. Are fines in school zones ‘double’ the normal amount?
A. Yes, because of the importance of and need for safety in school zones, fines and demerits are ‘doubling’ for expecations in the school zones.
Q. If I travel too fast in the 45-kilometre school zones, what happens?
A. More than $3,200.00 and other fees coupled with disqualification of driving and suspension of a driver’s license.
Q. Is it illegal to use a mobile phone in a school zone?
A. Yes, especially in school zones, it is illegal both due to the high chances of an accident escalating in this area, and other demerit points.
