1.2 Million NSW Drivers to Benefit from Demerit Point Reward Scheme

NSW Drivers Incentivised with Demerit Point Scheme for Safe Holiday Driving

As the festive season wraps-up, New South Wales authorities are bringing back the demerit point scheme to encourage safe driving. Drivers who maintain a clean traffic record from now until 16 January, 2025 will be rewarded with the removal of one demerit point from their licence.

Minister for Roads John Graham highlighted the scheme's importance: "This offers a carrot of reward for good behaviour, in contrast to the usual stick of enforcement and double demerits". About 1.5 million drivers are eligible, with 70% on track to have a point removed.

It's important to note that this scheme only applies to unrestricted and professional licence holders. Learner and provisional (P1 and P2) drivers are excluded, as they are already subject to specific regulations under the Graduated Licensing Scheme.

The initiative comes at a critical time, with road fatalities in NSW reaching 323 this year. Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison noted the disproportionate impact on regional communities, where two-thirds of all deaths occur despite only a third of the population residing there.

To qualify, eligible drivers with active demerit points must maintain an offence-free record for 12 months.

Aitchison emphasised simple ways to save lives: "Stick to the speed limit, avoid drinking and driving or using other drugs, keep your mobile phone out of reach, manage fatigue, and always wear a seatbelt".

As nearly half the state prepares for Christmas travel, authorities hope this scheme will promote safer driving and prevent further tragedies on NSW roads.